The National Kidney Foundation reports that 26 million Americans suffer from chronic renal failure. Uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure are the two main causes of chronic renal failure. High blood sugar levels cause damage to the kidneys and blood vessels. Elevated blood pressure places strain on blood vessels and affects blood flow to the kidneys. Chronic renal failure symptoms include fatigue, swelling, insomnia and muscle cramps. Severe complications from chronic renal failure can also develop over time.
Heart Disease
Chronic renal failure leads to heart disease because of damage to blood vessels. Uncontrolled blood sugars and blood pressure cause most of this damage, but elevated cholesterol levels are also a key player. Adequately controlling diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol can reduce the risk of heart disease in kidney patients. The associated swelling and retaining of fluid also places strain on the heart and can affect its ability to pump blood efficiently, leading to heart failure. The MayoClinic.com recommends treating excessive swelling by limiting salt and fluid intake, and with diuretics. Report any signs of chest pain or swelling to a doctor immediately.
Anemia
Anemia occurs in people with chronic renal failure because damaged kidneys are unable to make enough erythropoietin, a hormone used to make red blood cells. Anemia develops early on and gradually worsens. Anemia greatly impacts quality of life and causes fatigue, insomnia, anorexia, and even depression. Some kidney patients may have low iron or vitamin B-12 levels, which contribute to anemia. According to the National Kidney Foundation, anemia can be treated with vitamin B-12 or iron supplementation, and injections that stimulate the production of erythropoietin.
Bone Disorders
Bone and mineral disorders are common in people with chronic renal failure, according to the National Kidney Foundation. This occurs because of an imbalance between calcium, phosphorous, and parathyroid hormone. Complications from bone and mineral disorders include bone pain, fractures, muscle pain, and tendon ruptures. Medications used to maintain an equilibrium between calcium, phosphorous, and parathyroid hormone can help prevent these complications. Controlling other risk factors for osteoporosis, such as smoking, poor diet, inactivity, is also important in people with chronic renal failure.
