Kidney failure is rising at an alarming rate in the United States and here in Louisiana. This increase in kidney failure, however, isn't because of some rare or hard-to-pronounce kidney diseases. The leading cause of new cases of end-stage renal disease is diabetes.

"Healthy kidneys have several important functions," says Steven Morris, M.D., a nephrologist at Chalmette Medical Center. "They remove waste products and excess fluids from the blood, produce important hormones and balance salts and other substances. Diabetes, however, can damage the blood vessels and filtering mechanisms in the kidneys so they become less efficient over time."

Kidney disease is often a slow and silent condition that progressively worsens.

"Many people have no idea that kidney failure is so common or that they are at a greater risk if they have diabetes or high blood pressure," says Arzu Hatipoglu-Greer, M.D., a nephrologist at CMC. "So they often don't take steps or get medical attention until their kidney function is greatly diminished."

What you can do
The earlier kidney disease is detected, the better your chances of preventing kidney failure. If you have diabetes, you should take these steps to help preserve your kidney function:

• Work with your doctor to control your blood-sugar levels and high blood pressure. Hypertension is another major cause of kidney failure.
• Know your numbers. Your doctor may assess your kidney function by testing your urine for protein and/or measuring the level of creatinine in your blood. You should know and track the results of these tests just like you do your blood-glucose, cholesterol and blood-pressure levels.
• Lose excess weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat healthy, low-fat, high-fiber foods.
• Reduce your salt intake.
• See a nephrologist for periodic kidney evaluations.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience some of these symptoms of kidney disease: fatigue; a loss of appetite; changes in your urge to urinate; swelling or numbness in the hands, feet or legs; nausea; difficulty concentrating; and muscle cramps.

Steven Morris, M.D.
Arzu Hatipoglu-Greer, M.D.

When the kidneys fail
There are several treatment options for patients whose kidneys fail. The most common treatment -- hemodialysis -- involves filtering the blood through a machine. Patients who choose outpatient dialysis typically undergo three- to fourhour treatments three times a week. Another option is peritoneal dialysis, which involves the use of the inner lining of the abdominal cavity. Peritoneal dialysis is done at home during the day or night with the use of a machine.

Kidney transplantation is the third treatment option. Some patients receive kidneys from compatible family members, while others are placed on a kidney transplant list.

"We do all we can to help preserve kidney function in patients who have diabetes," Dr. Morris says. "We also provide comprehensive treatment so that those who suffer kidney failure can live healthier and more active lives." For more information about the dialysis services available at Chalmette Medical Center, call 620-6124.

9001 Patricia Street, P.O. Box 1727, Chalmette, LA 70044 (504) 620-6000