Plan for Progress  

Chronic renal failure or CRF is a condition that proceeds chronic kidney disease, which is a grave medical condition that slowly destroys the kidneys. When a person is affected by kidney disease he or she is at a heightened risk of other circulatory problems inclusive of multiple kinds of cardiovascular disease. As kidney disease progresses over time it will trigger irreversible impairment to renal tissue that soon leads to a reduction in total kidney function. Since February 2002 a formal classification of the various stages that manifest as a result of kidney disease has been published. It details the extent of damages in relation to the specified stage of the disease.

Stage 1: Kidney Functions regularly but sign of underlying condition is detected in urine along with a few other irregularities that will denote probable kidney disease. GFR (90+)

Stage 2: Kidney function is impaired slightly, at this stage the disease is considered as mild with the potential for progressive deterioration GFR (60-89 )

Stage 3: Kidney function is moderately impaired GFR (30-59 )

Stage 4: Kidney function is severely reduced and borders on renal failure GFR (15-29 )

Stage 5: Kidney function has completely subsided, will not function effectively on its own without medical intervention. This is end stage kidney failure or established renal failure (GFR <15 )

The begining stages of kidney disease specifically stage one and two, the GFR will not be the standalone method of diagnosis as this will be incomplete because of its inability to determine the disease in its starting stages. Other irregularities will have to be apparent, in addition to further screening methods that will be used to complete diagnosis. Tests will include of a blood test and an imaging test.

Once a person is suspected of having endstage kidney disease or chronic renal failure then he or she will need intensive medical treatment. It is possible to suffer from the disease and remain quite well, however, it will inextricably cause the kidneys to stop functioning sooner or later. The main objective of a proper diagnostic system and treatment is to stop it from deteriorating. While the disease is not reversible, there are procedures that can be implemented to slow or stop the progression of the disease.

The problem with renal disease is that it can stay relatively dormant in the body while gradually killing the kidneys. When the disease reaches chronic renal failure the possibility for deterioration is significantly increased. It may take months or years for the disease to develop until it reaches endstage chronic renal failure. However, once it reaches that point the patient will have to start dialysis or have a kidney transplant performed immediately. Two common risk factors for developing the disease are diabetes and hypertension. In the event that either are controlled the disease can still developed once it has been established in renal tissue.

There are a few signs and symptoms that may indicate that an individual is afflicted with the disease however it is also possible to be asymptomatic.

Symptoms include:

Poor appetite

Nausea and vomiting

Tiredness

Fluid retention or Edema (swollen ankles)

Itchiness

Cramps

Restless legs

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