Rehab Select Blog

Kidney transplant is a treatment option for individuals who for whom chronic kidney disease (CKD) has progressed to stage 5, also known as end-stage renal disease or kidney failure. At this stage of the disease, the kidneys have lost the majority of their function, making dialysis, and eventually, kidney transplant necessary for survival.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common and growing problem in the United States today, described by some experts as epidemic. According to the CDC, an estimated 16.8 percent of adults over age 20 have CKD, and among people over age 60, the rate is even higher, at 26 percent and rapidly rising. Since CKD often has no symptoms in the early stages, many people with the disease remain unaware of it until significant damage is done to their kidneys – damage that probably could have been prevented or delayed with early treatment. For this reason, knowing your risk factors for this often stealthy, but potentially deadly disease is very important, as is getting screened for CKD regularly if you are at risk.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), also known as chronic renal disease, affects approximately 26 million adults in the U.S., according to the National Kidney Foundation. 

The kidneys play an important role in the human body: they are designed to remove unnecessary particles in the blood and send them to the bladder, where they can eventually be passed through urine. Kidneys also work to help regulate the amount of salts and minerals that are present in the body.

Meal plans for kidney disease management differ somewhat, depending on whether or not a patient is on dialysis or not; but all focus on reducing the "load" on the kidneys and on avoiding the buildup phosphorus and potassium, which can be dangerous in excess amounts.

The kidneys are located on either side of the spine, just above the waist. Their most famous role is as a blood cleanser, whereby they remove waste and toxins so that those toxins can then be excreted from the body. They also help regulate blood pressure, maintain the proper balance of minerals and salts in the blood, and assist in red blood cell production. The kidneys also produce a form of vitamin D, necessary for healthy bones.

Approximately 20 million Americans today suffer from some kind of kidney insufficiency that requires kidney disease care. Kidney diseases that can become chronic include kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or even chronic renal failure that could result in death.

Patients who need extended care and rehabilitation after an acute renal episode requiring hospitalization can receive excellent, cost-effective care in community based nursing facilities – including dialysis if necessary.