Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive disorder that irreversibly worsens and eventually prevents the kidneys from filtering waste products out of blood, with diabetes and high blood pressure often being the culprits, although heredity might also matter. Yet, is chronic kidney disease hereditary? Dr Bisma in this context, describes the mystery of the genetic connection between chronic kidney disease and genetics.
The Chronic Kidney Disease
The kidneys, which look like beans and have the shape of the letter “C”, are those organs which flush out the waste from the blood by producing urine as the excreta. While CKD is described as the gradual loss of kidney function, the kidneys will eventually cease to filter blood efficiently, causing the accumulation of toxins within our body and leading to more complications.
@kidneyhealthmd Is Chronic Kidney Disease Hereditary? Watch this video and let us learn what CKD is! Consult with a kidney specialist for personalized guidance on managing your diet with kidney disease. Contact us and visit our website! https://www.drbismah.com #KidneyHealthAwareness #MedicationRisks #PrescriptionCautions #WellnessEducation #KidneyWellbeing #MedicationSafety #HealthKnowledge #EmpowerYourHealth #WellnessWednesday #HealthCaution ♬ original sound – Kidney and Holistic MD
Initially, the recognition of the problem and its proper management from stages 1 through 5, which specify a minimal amount of damage to kidney failure, are the most crucial steps in preventing its development and the following complications.
Is Chronic Kidney Disease Genetically Transmitted?
Yes, family history may sometimes be a risk factor for chronic kidney disease. Heritable diseases develop as a result of genetic variants inherited from the parents that are associated with different functions of the kidneys; such variants could include
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
- Alport syndrome
- IgA Nephropathy
- Medullary Cystic Kidney Disease
How Does Genes Increase Risk for Chronic Kidney Disease?
Genes provide instructions for making proteins in our bodies. When mutations or changes to genes responsible for kidney function occur, inherited kidney diseases occur as the kidneys develop abnormally or function improperly as a result.
Family History and Risk for CKD
Understanding that having a family history of chronic kidney disease doesn’t guarantee you will develop it yourself is of vital importance, for two reasons. Here is why.
1. Incomplete Penetrance
Some genetic diseases get passed from parents to children, but the chance of getting the disease itself isn’t always there; additional factors, like genes or environment, may be involved.
2. Variability Expressivity
Genetic predisposition to chronic kidney disease is an important factor that influences the progression and severity of the disease, yet there are cases of familial members with the same genetic mutation who present with a remarkably diverse clinical picture; some experience a rapid deterioration in renal functions while others are more resilient in terms of the progression of the disease.
Early Diagnosis Is Crucial
Quick diagnosis is a main factor that helps in efficient management of kidney disease, and the avoidance of complications. When there is a genetic factor in a disease, your physician will want to schedule regular checkups with you; screening tests like blood tests or urine tests could detect early-phase disease that might otherwise go unnoticed, while early treatment and intervention could significantly slow the progression of the disease.
Read more: What are the most common kidney diseases?
Important Considerations Beyond Genetics
Although genetics play a part in kidney disease, they’re not the sole factor. There are other risk factors which contribute to its development and progression such as
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Unhealthful diet
- Lack of physical activity
Taking Charge of Your Kidney Health: Taking Responsibility
Even if CKD runs in your family, there are steps you can take to lower your risk and protect kidney health:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stick to a balanced and nutritional diet
- Limit salt consumption
- Manage blood sugar if applicable for those living with diabetes
- Quit smoking
- Exercise, regularly.
Make sure that you are in good condition by having regular checkups and tests, including those if your blood relatives have kidney disease.
Make an Appointment With Dr. Bisma
Chronic kidney disease can be an overwhelming health challenge. Although genetics play an integral part, its presence doesn’t need to be inevitable. By understanding your risk factors and regularly being tested for kidney health issues as well as adopting healthier lifestyle habits you can regain control of your kidney health and lower the chances of it progressing into CKD.
Are You Suspect of CKD, or Concerned about Your Own? Kidney care specialists can assess individual risk factors, recommend screening tests as appropriate, and create a personalized plan designed to ensure optimal kidney health!
