Nephropathy, particularly when caused by diabetes or hypertension, results in chronic damage to the kidney's filtering units. This damage progresses over time, reducing kidney function and ultimately leading to ESRD.
End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is a serious condition where the kidneys have lost almost all of their ability to function effectively. This typically occurs after a gradual decline in kidney function over many years, often due to chronic kidney disease (CKD). At this stage, the kidneys are unable to effectively filter waste products, balance fluids, electrolytes, and control blood pressure.
The primary causes of ESRD include diabetes and hypertension, which together account for the majority of cases. Other causes can include glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, and prolonged obstruction of the urinary tract.
Once a person reaches ESRD, kidney transplantation or dialysis is required to perform the functions that the kidneys can no longer do. Dialysis options include hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, both of which help to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood.
Nurses play a critical role in the management of patients with ESRD. This includes providing education on dialysis treatment options, managing symptoms, monitoring for complications, and supporting patients and families through the complex treatment process.
Nephropathy, particularly when caused by diabetes or hypertension, results in chronic damage to the kidney's filtering units. This damage progresses over time, reducing kidney function and ultimately leading to ESRD.
Once a patient reaches ESRD, dialysis becomes necessary to perform the crucial functions of the kidneys, such as filtering waste and balancing electrolytes.
For patients with ESRD, a kidney transplant offers a potential cure by replacing the failed kidneys with a functioning one from a donor, significantly improving quality of life and survival.