prompter: what is kidney disease

assistant: Kidney disease refers to any condition that damages the kidneys and impacts their ability to function properly. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine below the rib cage. They are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood to produce urine. They are also involved in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and red blood cell production in the body. 

Some common causes of kidney disease include:

- Diabetes - The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage the kidneys over time. Diabetic kidney disease is the leading cause of kidney failure. 

- High blood pressure - High BP can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their function. Controlling blood pressure can help prevent further damage. 

- Glomerulonephritis - Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys. This can be caused by an autoimmune disease or infection. 

- Polycystic kidney disease - An inherited disorder where cysts form in the kidneys, causing them to enlarge and lose function over time. 

- Recurrent kidney infections - Repeated urinary tract infections, especially in children, can lead to permanent kidney damage if left untreated or improperly treated. 

- Toxins - Exposure to heavy metals, medications, or other toxins can potentially harm the kidneys. 

- Lupus - An autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation of various organs, including the kidneys. 

The symptoms of kidney disease include increased urination, swelling in the legs and face, fatigue, nausea, and poor appetite. Diagnosis is made through blood and urine tests to check kidney function and the presence of protein or blood in the urine. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause and preventing further damage. In severe cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be needed.

The key to kidney health is maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding exposure to toxins.  Early detection and treatment of kidney disease can help prevent the progression to kidney failure.

prompter: How does Farxiga protect the kidneys for diabetics?

assistant: Kidney disease commonly refers to "chronic kidney disease", meaning the kidneys are in a damaged state for more than three months. Kidney disease is characterized by reduced capability of the kidneys primary function, which is the cleaning of blood. (also see the Mondo disease ontology purl: https://www.ebi.ac.uk/ols/ontologies/mondo/terms?short_form=MONDO_0005300.)

Patients with progressed kidney disease can experience any of the following symptoms: Nausea, shortness of breath, dry skin, swelling of some extremities (especially feet and ankles). This list isn't complete.

prompter: What causes it and how do I know if I have it? I don't have much money for the doctor so what symptoms should I look out for along with what other diseases appear or are related to kidney disease?

assistant: It is important to note that I'm not a doctor, but I can provide some general information on kidney disease.  There are several causes of kidney disease, including diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, hereditary factors, and exposure to toxins.  It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

Some common symptoms of kidney disease:
* Fatigue and weakness
* Swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs
* Nausea and vomiting
* Loss of appetite
* Changes in urine output or color
* Persistent itching
* Shortness of breath
* High blood pressure

Related diseases and conditions:

* Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the kidneys over time.
* High blood pressure: This can put strain on the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney disease.
* Polycystic kidney disease: A genetic disorder causing cysts to develop in the kidneys.
* Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units, possibly due to infections or autoimmune diseases.
* Kidney stones: Mineral deposits that can cause pain and sometimes block urine flow.

If you're experiencing any symptoms, it's crucial to see a healthcare professional to discuss your concerns and receive appropriate care.  There may be low-cost or free clinics in your area that can help if financial concerns are an issue.

prompter: Are there any home treatments?

assistant: Kidney disease can be caused by many factors, including:

1. Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time.
2. High blood pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension can cause damage to the blood vessels in the kidneys.
3. Inherited conditions: Polycystic kidney disease and other genetic disorders can lead to kidney problems.
4. Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units can cause kidney damage.
5. Kidney infections: Repeated or severe infections can lead to kidney damage.
6. Obstructions: Kidney stones or enlarged prostate can block the urinary tract, causing kidney damage.
7. Prolonged use of certain medications: Some medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can harm the kidneys if used for a long time.

Early-stage kidney disease often has no noticeable symptoms. But as the disease progresses, you may experience:

1. Fatigue and weakness
2. Swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands
3. Shortness of breath
4. Nausea and vomiting
5. Loss of appetite
6. Persistent itching
7. Changes in urine output (more or less frequent)
8. Foamy or bloody urine
9. Difficulty concentrating or mental confusion

If you suspect you have kidney disease, it's important to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They will likely perform blood and urine tests to assess your kidney function.

Some related conditions or complications of kidney disease include:

1. Anemia: Reduced red blood cell production due to impaired kidney function.
2. Cardiovascular disease: Kidney disease increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
3. Electrolyte imbalances: Kidney dysfunction can lead to imbalances in potassium, calcium, and phosphorus levels.
4. Bone disease: Kidney disease can cause weakened bones and increased risk of fractures.
5. Kidney failure: Advanced kidney disease may progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

prompter: I've had weakness for several months, but now there is itching and I need to go to the toilet more often