Diet & Exercise for CKD

Medications & Kidneys...

Which Arrangement is Best?

The 'air waves' are filled with many medications for CKD and related needs.
Of course, there is no one drug that can do it all. Some prefer 'jazz', others like the 'symphony'.
Sometimes a 'solo' will do just fine, but, often a 'quartet' is required.
In the diabetic, following strict orders with sugar control meds cannot be understated. Maintaining 'pitch perfect' levels is vital.
Remember, hypertension (high blood pressure - abbreviated HTN) can be both the cause and the result of CKD, so, medications to keep pressure numbers in 'check' are critical to slow disease progression and modify risk.
The diabetic that has CKD and HTN may be losing large amount of protein - so certain kinds (classes) of drugs are used in prescribing the right 'composition' for these patients.
'Chiming' in with the class of ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor) is the class of ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker) in proving useful for the diabetic with CKD & HTN.
Both classes have been found to be 'keynote' performers in decreasing not only the HTN, but also the protein loss. This often results in slowing the progression of CKD.
Many times your doctor must 'spin' several of these medications at the same time to find the right 'beat'. Be sure to follow his/her advice so your 'billboard chart' is at its best!

A Riff?

Some medications fit into our 'gong show' group!
Depending on the stage of CKD, medicines that might otherwise be of benefit may now cause harm.
Well known culprits are anti-inflammatory medications - such as ibuprofen and its relatives.
Especially as CKD progresses, meds like these may cause the kidneys to 'spin off track' much more quickly.
In some cases, patients who have no previous diagnosis of CKD can be thrown into a 'funk' causing a state of acute kidney injury (AKI) while exposed to these drugs. This is especially true in people who have lost large amounts of fluid (i.e. dehydrated).
Consult the 'maestro' (your doctor) to be sure you're not taking medications that will damage your kidney function.

Nature's Song

Various herbal and natural preparations often found in health food stores should be approached with caution. At times a bad 'vibe' can be produced when patients with CKD take these products.
Just because these items are bought without a prescription, they are still "drugs" that have an impact on your body and must be monitored closely.
As in every circumstance regarding medications, your doctor is the best 'DJ' to 'conduct' proper evaluations to determine the ideal 'mix' for you!