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Chronic renal failure: Causes, symptoms and treatments
Chronic renal failure is the slow deterioration of the kidneys’ ability to filter and eliminate metabolic waste products from the blood. When the kidneys no longer function properly, they are no longer able to play their primary role, causing our bodies to store certain wastes that are no longer eliminated. Chronic renal failure can last for months or even years, and can range from mild to severe.
Causes and diagnosis
More precisely, kidney disease sets in slowly and silently, but progresses over the years. Moreover, it’s only at a more advanced stage that certain symptoms can be observed, so it’s possible that kidney failure is only detected when kidney function has already deteriorated. Even so, diagnosis can be made at an early stage, and the necessary measures can be taken.
There are many causes of chronic renal failure. The two main causes are diabetes and high blood pressure. Both diseases damage the small vessels in the kidneys. Other causes of chronic renal failure include urinary tract blockages, kidney malformations and autoimmune diseases.
Complications and treatment of anemia
Chronic renal failure causes a number of problems for the body, including anemia, which results in a reduction in the number of red blood cells in the blood. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells. When hemoglobin levels are low, the body’s tissues don’t get enough oxygen and can’t function properly. The hemoglobin molecule contains iron, an essential mineral obtained from our diet.
Symptoms and treatment of anemia
In women, concentrations below 120g/L and in men, concentrations below 130g/L indicate anemia. On the other hand, in people with chronic renal failure, the target hemoglobin value is around 100-120g/L.
A person with anemia may feel tired, have low energy, be short of breath and feel cold. Anemia can be diagnosed by taking a blood test to check the number of red blood cells and the hemoglobin level.
Several treatments can be used to treat anemia, including diet modification, dietary supplements such as iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid, prescription medications such as erythropoietin, and blood transfusions.
Study currently recruiting
It’s important to treat the anemia associated with chronic renal failure. Fewer red blood cells in the body can make the heart work harder, which can lead to other problems. A study of anemia in chronic renal failure is currently being recruited at our Val Bélair and Lebourgneuf clinics. You may be eligible to participate if you are looking for a treatment related to anemia.
To find out more about the studies currently being recruited, please contact the Alpha Clinical Research team at 418-704-1112 (Lebourgneuf) or 418-847-1112 (Val-Bélair).