### Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects about 37 million people in the United States. It occurs when the kidneys are damaged and can't filter blood as well as they should. This can lead to a buildup of waste and fluid in the body, causing other health issues like heart disease and stroke. #### Main Causes 1. **Diabetes**: High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, making them less effective at filtering waste. 2. **High Blood Pressure**: Increased force of blood flow can damage the tiny vessels in the kidneys over time. #### Prevention and Management - **Regular Check-ups**: Early detection is crucial. Regular screenings can help catch CKD before it becomes severe. - **Control Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure**: Managing these conditions can slow down or prevent kidney damage. - **Healthy Lifestyle**: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. - **Medications**: Doctors may prescribe medications to control blood pressure and blood sugar levels. #### Treatment Options - **Dialysis**: This involves filtering the blood using a machine. There are two types: Hemodialysis (done at a center) and Peritoneal Dialysis (done at home). - **Kidney Transplant**: This is considered when dialysis is not sufficient. It involves replacing the damaged kidney with a healthy one from a donor. By managing diabetes and high blood pressure, and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce the risk of CKD and its complications.