Mr. Ramesh Sharma, a 52-year-old businessman in India, seemed healthy aside from mild fatigue and swelling. With a history of diabetes and hypertension, he had never tested his kidney function until a routine checkup revealed stage 3 CKD. Guided by Dr. Deepak Chandra Srivastava, he began early interventions based on KDIGO guidelines, including blood pressure and diabetes management, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. His story underscores the silent nature of CKD, the importance of early detection, and how consistent care can prevent progression to kidney failure.
It was a regular day at Osborn Clinic when Mr. Ramesh Sharma, a 52-year-old businessman, walked in for a routine checkup. He looked fit, had no major complaints, and only mentioned occasional fatigue and swelling in his legs. “Doctor, it is probably just work stress”, he said with a smile. But as a kidney expert, I knew these subtle signs could be a warning.
The Silent Progression of CKD
Mr. Sharma had type 2 diabetes for 10 years and hypertension, both major risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD). He never had a kidney function test before, assuming his general health checkups were enough. Unfortunately, like many CKD patients, he had no obvious symptoms in the early stages.
Following the KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) guidelines, I recommended a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) test and a serum creatinine test to estimate his glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The results were concerning:
– ACR: 450 mg/g (Normal: 90 ml/min) → Stage 3 CKD
Mr. Sharma was shocked. “Doctor, I do not feel sick. How can my kidneys be failing?”
| I explained that CKD is a silent disease, and without regular screening, it can remain undetected until it is too late. | Thankfully, we had caught it early, before dialysis or transplant was needed. |
Taking Control: A Turning Point
Following KDIGO 2022 guidelines, we took a multi-step approach:
- Blood Pressure Control: Adjusted his medications to keep blood pressure <130/80 mmHg (target for CKD patients). Added an ACE inhibitor (Ramipril) [Editor’s note: A type of medicine that lowers blood pressure and reduces strain on the heart] to slow kidney damage. Diabetes Management: Suggested a low-protein, kidney-friendly diet and prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin) [Editor’s note: A class of drugs that treat type 2 diabetes and other conditions, by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys], which not only control blood sugar but also protect the kidneys.
- Lifestyle Changes: Advised low salt intake, weight loss, and daily 30-minute walks. Educated him about avoiding painkillers (NSAIDs), which could worsen kidney function.
- Regular Monitoring: Recommended 3 monthly kidney function tests and an annual kidney ultrasound to track disease progression.
Six Months Later: A New Life
Mr. Sharma followed the plan diligently. When he returned for a follow-up, his ACR had dropped to 180 mg/g, and his eGFR stabilized at 65 ml/min. More importantly, he felt energetic and confident. “Doctor, I never imagined a few small changes could protect my kidneys!”
Key Takeaways from Mr. Sharma’s Story
1⃣ Kidney disease is silent and early detection is key.
2⃣ Simple tests (ACR & eGFR) can save lives.
3⃣ Following KDIGO guidelines can prevent dialysis and kidney failure.
4⃣ Managing blood pressure, diabetes, and diet can slow CKD progression.
5⃣ Regular check-ups are crucial for high-risk individuals.
Your Kidney Health Matters!
This World Kidney Day, let’s take a pledge to protect our kidneys. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, get screened today. Early detection can save your kidneys and your life!
Disclaimer: The blog series is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to endorse or promote any specific drug, product, or brand. Each individual’s experience is unique and should not be construed as medical advice or a guarantee of similar results for others. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your health and well-being.
