Kidney Failure in Singapore l Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis

What is Kidney Failure?

Kidney failure (renal failure)  is when your kidneys can no longer filter waste from the blood and it builds up, potentially leading to serious health complications including fluid retention, irregular heartbeat, and feeling fatigued all the time weakness. If left untreated, this condition can be life-threatening.

There are two types of kidney failure:

  • Acute kidney failure happens quickly (over a few hours or days)
  • Chronic kidney failure happens slowly (over months or years)

In Singapore, kidney failure affects about 5.14 per 100,000 people as of recent data.

As kidney function declines, you may feel tired, swollen and short of breath. Chronic conditions like polycystic kidney disease (decrease in kidney function over time, affecting filtration) or glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney’s small filtering units, the glomeruli) can lead to end-stage renal disease and dialysis or transplant.

Don’t ignore the warning signs. Seek help now.

Types of Kidney Failure:

Acute Prerenal Kidney Failure: When the kidneys don’t get enough blood they can’t function. Once the cause of the decreased blood flow is fixed the kidneys can recover.

Acute Intrinsic Kidney Failure: Caused by direct damage to the kidneys such as an accident, toxin exposure or severe lack of blood and thus oxygen (ischemia).

Chronic Prerenal Kidney Failure: Long term decreased blood flow to the kidneys can cause the kidneys to atrophy (part of the body shrinks or wastes away from not being used) and lose function.

Chronic Intrinsic Kidney Failure: Caused by long term damage to the kidney tissue itself such as sustained ischemia or trauma.

Chronic Post-Renal Kidney Failure: Long term blockages in the urinary tract can cause kidney damage from the increased pressure in the system.

Acute Post-Renal Kidney Failure: When a sudden blockage in the urinary tract causes kidney failure often from kidney stones.

Kidney Failure Symptoms

Kidney failure can have many symptoms, depending on whether it’s acute or chronic. Early detection is key to treatment.

What are the first signs of kidney failure?

  • Swelling in feet, ankles, or hands due to inability to remove excess fluids.
  • Changes in urine, including foamy or bloody urine.
  • Fatigue and tiredness from waste build-up in blood.
  • Nausea and vomiting affecting appetite and leading to weight loss.
  • Itching and dry skin, indicating issues with waste removal.
  • Chest pain and shortness of breath from fluid around the heart and lungs.
  • Confusion and difficulty concentrating, especially in severe cases.

It’s important to note that at the early stage of kidney failure, you may not even experience any symptoms at all – regular health screenings could potentially save your life.

Kidney Failure Symptoms

Acute kidney failure symptoms

  • Occurs suddenly; requires immediate medical attention.
  • Drastic reduction in urine output; in some cases, urine output remains normal.
  • Severe fluid retention (oedema) causing swelling in legs, ankles, or feet.
  • Shortness of breath and chest pain due to fluid accumulation in the lungs or around the heart.
  • Nausea, vomiting, confusion, and possible seizures due to rapid toxin build-up.
  • Unpleasant metallic taste in mouth affecting taste and appetite.
  • Fatigue and weakness from accompanying anaemia (deficiency in red blood cells or haemoglobin, reducing oxygen transport).
  • Muscle cramps and pain due to electrolyte and mineral imbalances.

Chronic kidney disease symptoms

  • Progresses slowly; symptoms appear when kidneys are severely impaired.
  • Persistent fatigue from waste products accumulating in the blood.
  • Swelling in lower extremities, changes in urine such as increased frequency, especially at night or dark and foamy urine.
  • Nausea and vomiting affect appetite and nutrition.
  • Itching and dry skin from high phosphorus levels.
  • Confusion and difficulty concentrating due to slow toxin build-up.
  • Chest pain and shortness of breath from fluid in the lungs or around the heart, worsened by fluid overload and decreased levels of oxygen.
  • Muscle cramps and twitching from electrolyte imbalances.
  • Hypertension: Can cause and worsen kidney damage over time.
  • Haematuria: Blood in the urine, visible or microscopic, is a sign of kidney damage.

Kidney Disease Symptoms in Women

Kidney disease shows up differently in women, often due to various biological and lifestyle factors. Symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue and Lack of Focus: Women often report these symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations that can worsen toxin buildup when kidney function declines.
  • Loss of Appetite: This symptom can be more pronounced in women, because hormonal changes can affect metabolism and digestion.
  • Insomnia and Nocturnal Cramping: Women with CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) may experience these symptoms more. Hormonal fluctuations, especially of oestrogen and progesterone, can disrupt sleep patterns and muscle function.
  • Swollen Feet and Puffiness around the Eyes: These are signs of fluid retention, which can be more noticeable in women because of their body composition and hormonal cycles that affect fluid balance.
  • Dry, Itchy Skin: Women may experience this more because changes in kidney function can affect skin hydration and texture, because of hormonal shifts.
  • Nocturnal Urination: This symptom can be worse in women because of the shorter urethra and its proximity to the bladder, making them more prone to the effects of decreased kidney filtration at night.

Knowing these symptoms is key as early detection is better management of the condition. Our team at Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis will provide detailed assessments to identify and treat kidney disease proactively so every patient feels heard and supported throughout their journey.

What Does Kidney Pain Feel Like?

We’re not going to sugercoat it – kidney failure is painful. Treatment itself, while not painful, can be uncomfortable to sit through.

Some people may hesitate to seek help because they’re afraid of the pain that comes with treatment, and that’s understandable. However, As a result, the longer you delay seeking treatment, the worse the pain will get.  Worse still, the pain may eventually spread to other areas such as your lower tummy and back due to inflammation, movement of kidney stones or muscular compensation  – a process where your body adjusts its posture to offset pain, causing further strain on your muscles and bones.

The earlier you seek help,  the better your chances of reversing kidney failure. At its early stages, kidney failure can be managed or even treated with dialysis and medications; in its late stages, a kidney transplant could well be your only option. Our doctors can help tailor a pain management plan just for you, to stop kidney failure from progressing to the end stages. Ultimately, our goal is to help you live a life free of pain.

Personalised Kidney Care

We understand your journey and the discomfort you’re going through so we can tailor our treatments to not only relieve the pain but also manage the condition. Our approach includes:

High Flux Dialyzers in Hemodialysis:

For hemodialysis patients, our High Flux Dialyzers clear toxins more efficiently for better outcomes and faster relief from kidney failure symptoms.

Home Based Peritoneal Dialysis:

We support your choice to manage your condition in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Peritoneal dialysis is a patient centric treatment that can be self administered so you have control over your health.

Kidney Biopsies:

When a kidney biopsy is needed, our team will do it with care. We use minimally invasive techniques to make the procedure as comfortable as possible, reduce anxiety and maximise safety.

Clear Communication:

We believe in informing our patients. Our healthcare professionals will explain medical jargon in plain English so you understand your condition and the treatment options. This includes explaining what nephrons are, how different conditions affect your kidneys and how different treatments can help your kidney health.

Ongoing Support and Reassurance:

Our commitment to your health doesn’t stop after treatment. We offer ongoing support and monitoring so you feel confident and secure in managing your kidney health. This includes regular check-ups, lifestyle advice tailored to your needs and updates on kidney care.
It can feel isolating when no one around you understands your pain. At Nuffield, we want to provide you with both physical and emotional support. Please don’t hesitate to let us know if there’s anything we can do to support you through these trying times. Our team is always ready to help.

Who Does Kidney Failure Affect?

Kidney failure can impact anyone, but certain factors might increase your risk, especially in Singapore:

  • Have diabetes.
  • Have high blood pressure (hypertension).
  • Have heart disease.
  • Have a family history of kidney disease.
  • Have abnormal kidney structure.
  • Are from higher-risk ethnic groups, including Malays and Indians, who statistically face a greater risk of such health issues.
  • Are over 60.
  • Have a long history of using pain relievers, including over-the-counter options like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Kidney Failure Stages

Kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) progresses through several stages. Each stage represents the decline of your kidney function and requires medical attention and lifestyle changes.

The functionality of your kidney is assessed using the marker eGFR (estimated glomerular rate) from 1-100. A high number that’s close to 100 is desirable. The lower the number drops, the worse your kidney health.

Stage 1 :

Your kidneys are functioning at 90 or higher GFR. Symptoms are not apparent. Regular check-ups can catch any issues early.

Stage 2 :

Kidney function declines to 60-89 GFR. You may start to feel some mild symptoms like fatigue. Monitor your blood pressure and sugar.

Stage 3 :

This stage is divided into:

  • Stage 3A: Kidney function is 45-59 GFR.
  • Stage 3B: Kidney function is 30-44 GFR.

You may see symptoms like swelling, tiredness or changes in urination. Treatment focuses on slowing down the progression with medication, diet and exercise.

Stage 4 :

The stone moves into the urethra. Passing the stone with urine through the urethra requires exerting pressure to expel it.

Stage 5 :

Your kidney function is less than 15 GFR. This is kidney failure. Immediate treatment options are:

  • Dialysis: Filters waste from your blood.
  • Transplant: Replaces the failed kidneys with a healthy one.

Your kidneys are the powerhouse of your body. Don’t wait until they’ve broken down to seek treatment.

Causes of Kidney Failure

2 out of 3 kidney failure cases can be attributed to diabetes and high blood pressure. At 11.3%,  Singapore has one of the highest rates of diabetes in Asia.

The remaining 1 in 3 kidney failures arise from other diseases like Fabry disease (genetic disorder causing buildup of fat in cells, leading to various health issues), lgA nephropathy (kidney disease where IgA protein deposits inflame kidney filters), lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation caused by the autoimmune disease lupus) and polycystic kidney disease.

Causes of Acute Kidney Failure

Acute kidney failure happens fast and can be life threatening. Here are the main causes:

  • Loss of Blood Flow: Heart attacks, severe dehydration, allergic reactions and heavy bleeding from surgery can cut off blood flow to the kidneys.
  • Slowed Blood Flow: Conditions that lead to reduced blood flow to the kidneys, such as severe heart failure or advanced vascular disease, can also cause acute kidney failure.
  • Severe Burns and Sepsis: Burns and sepsis (a serious body response to infection that harms tissues and organs) can lower blood pressure and damage kidneys.
  • Medications: Certain medications like NSAIDs, some antibiotics and ACE inhibitors can harm kidneys.
  • Urinary Blockages: Kidney stones, blood clots and an enlarged prostate can block urine flow and increase pressure and damage to kidneys.
  • Inflammation and Infection: Sepsis and autoimmune diseases like lupus can cause inflammation and damage to kidney tissues.

Causes of Chronic Kidney Failure

Chronic kidney failure happens over time with gradual loss of kidney function. Here are the main causes:

  • Diabetes: High blood sugar levels over time damage the blood vessels in the kidneys and gradually damage the kidneys.
  • High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure puts constant pressure on the kidneys and causes long term damage.
  • Heart Disease: Conditions that impede blood flow to the kidneys can cause gradual damage over time.
  • Genetics and Family History: Certain genetic conditions and family history of kidney disease makes you more prone to chronic kidney failure.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Poor diet, no exercise and smoking can worsen conditions that can lead to chronic kidney failure.

Urine Elimination Problems

Issues with urine elimination can also cause kidney damage:

  • Urinary Tract Obstructions: Kidney stones, tumours or an enlarged prostate can block urine flow and cause pressure and damage.
  • Bladder Issues: Nerve damage, recurrent urinary tract infections and urinary retention can increase risk of kidney infections and damage.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Poor hydration, unhealthy diet and excessive alcohol consumption can affect urine elimination. Regular monitoring and medical advice is necessary.

Additional Causes

  • Nephrotic Syndrome: A condition that causes excessive protein loss in the urine leading to kidney damage.
  • Kidney Stones: Hard deposits that can block urine flow and cause pain and damage.
  • Vasculitis: Inflammation of blood vessels that can affect kidney function.
  • Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome: A condition characterised by anemia, kidney failure and low platelet count.
  • Chemotherapy Drugs: Certain chemotherapy drugs can harm kidney tissues.
  • Interstitial Nephritis: Inflammation of the kidney’s interstitial tissue often due to medications or infections.
  • Vesicoureteral Reflux: A condition where urine flows back from the bladder to the kidneys and can cause infections and damage.

Laboratory Tests

Blood Tests:

  • Measure Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) to see how well your kidneys are filtering.
  • eGFR (estimated GFR) is the key; lower numbers mean worse function.
  • Check for waste products like creatinine (waste product in the blood from muscle use and meat eaten) and urea.

Urine Tests:

  • Look for abnormalities like protein or blood in your urine, indicating damage or disease.

Kidney Biopsy:

  • May be done if other tests suggest severe problems.

Imaging and Further Assessment

  • Ultrasound: First test to image your kidneys using sound waves to see size, shape or blockages.
  • CT Scan/MRI: To get detailed images to see subtle changes in kidney tissue to plan treatment and understand the extent of damage.

Each test provides valuable information for diagnosis and forming a treatment plan.

If you’re feeling uncertain, we strongly encourage you to get tested for peace of mind.

Kidney Failure Treatment

Kidney failure is a serious condition that needs immediate and ongoing treatment.

At the moment, there is no cure for kidney failure. However, there are treatments that can help you live longer and better. The options are dialysis, kidney transplant, medication and diet and supportive therapies.

Kidney failure doesn’t have to be a death sentence. We’re here to walk with you on this journey and make it a little bit easier.

Dialysis

Dialysis is necessary for patients whose kidneys can no longer filter blood. There are three types of dialysis: hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and hemodiafiltration.

Hemodialysis is a machine that cleans your blood. You usually visit a clinic 3 times a week where blood is taken out, filtered and returned to your body.

Peritoneal dialysis can be done at home. A special fluid is introduced into your belly through a catheter (tube used to remove or deliver fluids to the body), uses your abdomen’s lining as a filter, absorbs toxins and is then removed.

Hemodiafiltration combines hemodialysis and hemofiltration to remove more toxins, especially larger molecules and protein bound substances, reduces cardiovascular issues and improves patient stability during treatment.

Dialysis Access Management

Our team makes sure everyone who needs dialysis gets complete care. Here’s how we do it:

Finding the Best Spot for Dialysis:

We use a special ultrasound machine to see inside your body. This helps us find the best place to put in a small tube for hemodialysis, which is a way to clean your blood.

Keeping Things Running Smoothly:

Sometimes, the spots where we put the tubes can get narrow or blocked. We can fix these problems with a tiny tool that helps widen the spot without big surgery.

Setting Up for Home Dialysis:

For those who do dialysis at home using their belly lining (peritoneal dialysis), we make sure the tube that carries the cleaning fluid in and out is placed just right. We use a special X-ray machine to guide us during this process.

This way, everyone gets the safest and most effective treatment.

Kidney Transplant

A kidney transplant is a more permanent solution. A healthy kidney from a donor replaces your failed kidneys. You’ll need immunosuppressive medications to prevent your body from rejecting the new kidney.

The transplant involves:

  • Finding a donor
  • Surgery to implant the new kidney
  • Ongoing follow up to monitor kidney function

Transplant gives better quality of life compared to long term dialysis, fewer dietary restrictions and lessens the burden of regular treatments.

Medication and Diet

Medication is important in managing kidney failure. You may be prescribed drugs to control blood pressure, manage diabetes and fluid retention. Diuretics remove excess fluid and phosphate binders manage phosphate levels.

You need to be monitored closely. Key dietary changes are:

  • Limit protein to reduce waste buildup
  • Control potassium and salt to prevent imbalance
  • Moderate fluid intake to avoid overload
  • Reduce protein
  • Control potassium
  • Limit salt
  • Balance fluids

 

Supportive Therapies

Supportive therapies help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These are:

  • Counselling and support groups for emotional and mental health
  • Physical therapy to maintain mobility and strength
  • Nutritional counselling for dietary restrictions

Regular health check ups and continuous medical support to keep you as healthy as possible. Supportive therapies address mental, emotional and physical aspects of kidney failure.

Urine Colours and What They Mean

  • Clear Urine: You might be overhydrated. If your urine is always clear, you might be drinking too much water. While hydration is important, too much water can harm your body.
  • Pale or Transparent Urine: You’re drinking enough water. This is a good sign of proper hydration.
  • Dark Yellow Urine: You might not be drinking enough water. This is a sign of dehydration and increasing your fluid intake can help with that.
  • Orange Urine: Dehydration due to not enough fluid intake. Can also be caused by certain vitamins or meds. In severe cases, it might be liver problems.
  • Dark Orange or Brown Urine: Not drinking enough water or body not producing enough water. Can also be liver issues or other medical conditions.
  • Dark Brown or Black Urine: Serious medical conditions like liver disease, rhabdomyolysis or alkaptonuria. Persistent dark brown or black urine should be checked by a doctor.
  • Pink or Red Urine: Blood in your urine. Can also be from eating beets or some meds. But you should see a doctor to rule out UTI or kidney issues such as early stage diabetic kidney disease.
  • Blue or Green Urine: From eating foods with a lot of dye or certain meds. Green urine can also be a UTI.
  • Cloudy Urine: UTI. Cloudiness in urine can be pus, bacteria or other substances.
  • White or Milky Urine: Chyluria (lymphatic fluid in the urine). See a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cloudy or Foamy Urine

  • Blockage: Cloudy urine especially if you feel the urge to urinate but there’s little relief might be a blockage. Causes could be an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, urethral blockage, blood clots or bladder cancer.
  • Kidney Disease: Foamy urine might be due to excessive protein which can be a sign of kidney problems such as early stage diabetic kidney disease. If you also experience swelling in your face, ankles or feet and muscle cramps and itchy skin this could be glomerulonephritis.
  • Lupus: Cloudy urine might also be related to lupus, an autoimmune disease that affects mostly women. There’s no cure for lupus but early diagnosis and treatment can manage the condition.

Kidney Failure Risks

Several factors can increase your risk of getting kidney failure. Knowing these risks can help you manage and prevent it.

  • Bladder Cancer: Affects bladder function but can impact kidney health if it blocks the kidneys.
  • Prostate Cancer: At the advanced stage, can cause kidney problems if it blocks the urinary tract.
  • Cervical Cancer: At the advanced stage, can cause kidney failure if it spreads or blocks the pathways to the kidneys.
  • Colon Cancer: Not a direct risk for kidney failure but can indirectly affect kidney health
  • Kidney Diseases affecting Glomeruli: Glomeruli are tiny structures in your kidneys that filter blood. Diseases affecting these structures can speed up kidney damage.
  • Glomerular Diseases: Diseases that affect the glomeruli in your kidneys can damage your kidney’s ability to clean your blood. Get them treated early to keep your kidneys healthy.
  • Polycystic Kidney Disease: This genetic condition causes cysts to grow in your kidneys. The cysts can slowly deteriorate kidney function.
  • Liver Diseases: Liver problems can affect overall health and kidney function. Hepatitis (an infection that causes inflammation and damage to the liver) or cirrhosis (a condition where the liver slowly deteriorates and malfunctions due to chronic injury) can complicate kidney management.
  • Diabetes with Poor Blood Sugar Control: High blood sugar levels can damage your kidneys over time. Managing diabetes well is key to reducing this risk.
  • High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure puts extra burden to your kidneys. This can lead to kidney damage and eventually kidney failure.
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking and other forms of tobacco use can harm your kidneys. Quit smoking can help improve kidney health.
  • Age: As you get older you are more at risk. Age naturally decreases kidney function.
  • Family History: Older adults and those with family history of kidney disease are at risk. Regular check ups can help in early detection and management.
  • Obesity: Being overweight can increase the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure which can lead to kidney failure.

Kidney Failure Complications

Kidney failure can cause many serious complications in different parts of the body. These complications include cardiovascular, metabolic and psychological.

Cardiovascular

  • Anaemia: A common problem in kidney failure where the kidneys don’t produce enough erythropoietin so red blood cell count is reduced. This causes fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath. Monitoring and treatment with iron supplements or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents is key to managing anaemia.
  • Heart Strain: Kidney failure puts a lot of strain on the heart so there’s a higher risk of heart disease and stroke due to high blood pressure and cholesterol. Monitoring of heart health, blood pressure and cholesterol and taking the right meds is important.
  • Electrolyte Imbalances: Kidney failure can cause electrolyte imbalances especially potassium which can cause irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Managing these imbalances is important to cardiovascular health.

Mineral and Bone Disorders

  • Mineral Imbalance: Kidney failure affects calcium and phosphorus regulation causing mineral and bone disorders like renal osteodystrophy. This causes bone pain, weakness and increased fracture risk. Treatment is with medications, diet changes and monitoring.

Hyperkalemia

  • High Potassium: In kidney failure the kidneys can’t regulate potassium levels resulting in hyperkalemia. High potassium can cause life threatening heart arrhythmias and other problems. Management is with diet restrictions, medications and sometimes dialysis to keep potassium levels safe.

Pregnancy Complications

  • Risks to Mother and Baby: Kidney failure during pregnancy can cause high blood pressure, preeclampsia and worsening kidney function in the mother. The baby may be small or born preterm. Close monitoring by a specialised team is necessary to manage these risks and keep mother and baby safe.

Metabolic Complications

  • Metabolic Acidosis: Kidney failure causes metabolic acidosis which is an imbalance of the body’s acid-base levels. This causes fatigue and weak bones. Monitoring and treatment to balance these levels is necessary.
  • Fluid Retention and Pulmonary Edema: Reduced kidney function causes fluid retention which can cause swelling and pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs). This presents as shortness of breath and chest pain. Monitoring and treatment is necessary to manage these symptoms.
  • Electrolyte Imbalances: Kidney failure can also cause potassium and calcium imbalances which are life threatening if not managed properly. Regular blood tests and sticking to diet restrictions will help manage these.

Psychological Impact

The psychological impact of kidney failure is often overlooked but very real. You may get anxiety and depression due to the stress and lifestyle changes that come with the disease.

Chronic illness can lead to mental health issues including feelings of hopelessness and isolation. Support groups, counselling and psychiatric care plays a big role in managing these. You should address mental health along with physical health to improve your quality of life.

Cost of Kidney Failure Treatment in Singapore

The cost of kidney failure treatment varies depending on the type and stage of treatment. In Singapore, the costs are structured to cater to different financial means and healthcare needs:

Hemodialysis:

SGD 2,000 to SGD 3,000 per month. This includes High Flux Dialyzers which are proven to enhance dialysis effectiveness.

Peritoneal Dialysis:

SGD 1,500 to SGD 2,500 per month. This is a home-based treatment that allows patients to manage their treatment more flexibly and comfortably at home.

Kidney Transplant:

One-time cost of kidney transplant is SGD 20,000 to SGD 150,000 which includes pre-transplant evaluation, surgery and post-operative care. This range takes into account donor type and associated services.

It’s essential to manage hydration and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms. Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis take every precaution to minimise these risks.

Are There Subsidies For Kidney Failure Treatment in Singapore?

In Singapore, patients undergoing kidney failure treatment can access various subsidies to help ease their financial burden. These subsidies are from government and non-government organisations and can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. For example, the Ministry of Health offers means-tested subsidies for lower and middle-income patients which can cover a significant portion of dialysis costs. Charity organisations like National Kidney Foundation (NKF) also provide additional financial assistance and support so that all patients receive the care they need regardless of their financial situation.

Why Choose Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis For Kidney Failure Treatment?

  • Expertise and Authority: Our clinic is equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by highly trained healthcare professionals. We use advanced treatment methods like High Flux Dialyzers to get the best results for our patients.
  • Informed and Empowering: We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. Our healthcare teams explain conditions and treatments like nephron function and different dialysis techniques so patients can make informed healthcare decisions.
  • Continuous Support: We provide comprehensive post-treatment care and ongoing support for all our patients to ensure their long-term health and well-being.
  • Compassionate Care: We put patient comfort and convenience first in all our services, from in-home peritoneal dialysis to minimising discomfort during procedures like kidney biopsies.

Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis are here to support you, your family and your friends through these tough times. Know that you’re not alone in this. Contact us for a consultation now.

Living with Kidney Failure

Living with kidney failure requires many changes in your daily life and seeking mental, emotional and social support is important. You will need to adjust your diet, fluid intake and activities and find ways to stay positive and connected with others.

Daily Life Adjustments

  • Dietary Changes: You will need to follow a strict diet to control your sodium, potassium and phosphorus intake. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can help manage these levels.
  • Fluid Intake: Monitoring and controlling your fluid intake is important. Too much fluid can cause swelling and high blood pressure. Your doctor will give you specific guidelines.
  • Medication: Following a medication schedule can prevent complications. This often includes phosphate binders, vitamins and blood pressure medications.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity according to your condition can improve overall health. Simple activities like walking or light yoga can be beneficial. Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise.
  • Dialysis Management: If you’re on dialysis you will have specific schedules and routines to follow. High Flux Dialyzers in hemodialysis may be used for better outcomes.

Psychosocial Support

  • Mental Health Support: Living with kidney failure can be emotionally challenging. Seeking counselling or mental health support is important. A professional can help you navigate your feelings and offer ways to cope with stress and anxiety.
  • Support Groups: Joining a support group can give you emotional comfort and practical advice. Sharing experiences with others who are going through the same journey can be very reassuring.
  • Family and Friends: Involve your loved ones in your care. They can give you emotional support and help you with daily activities.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: It’s important to find support that respects your cultural values and beliefs. This may include faith based counselling or connecting with community organisations.
  • Support Systems: Regular communication with your healthcare team ensures you get continuous support. They can answer your questions, adjust treatments and give you updates on kidney health management.

Preventing Kidney Failure

Foods to Eat

  1. Fresh Fruits and Veggies: Local greens like bok choy and kang kong, and fruits like papaya and bananas. Nutrient dense and kidney friendly.
  2. Lean Proteins: Local fish like tilapia or seabass, chicken, tofu and tempeh.
  3. Whole Grains: Brown rice and whole grain versions of bread and noodles.
  4. Low Sodium Options: When cooking at home, use herbs like lemongrass and ginger to flavour instead of salt. Be careful with soy sauce and other salty condiments commonly found in Singaporean food.

Water Intake

  • General Guideline: Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day, especially in Singapore’s hot and humid weather.
  • Activity and Climate Adjustments: Increase water intake if you are outdoors or on hotter days to prevent dehydration.
  • Monitor Urine Colour: Urine should be light to pale yellow as an indicator of hydration.

Additional Tips

  • Monitor Blood Pressure and Sugar Levels: With diabetes being a common problem in Singapore, monitor and manage your condition to prevent kidney damage.
  • Regular Exercise: Go for regular physical activities like brisk walking in parks or join community exercise programs which are widely available.
  • Avoid Nephrotoxic Substances: Limit use of over-the-counter medication like pain relievers that can affect the kidney.
  • Regular Health Check-Ups: Take advantage of Singapore’s healthcare system for regular check-ups including urine and blood tests to catch kidney problems early.

Kidney Failure Considerations

General: Kidney failure management varies by patient group; paediatric, elderly, and different ethnicities have unique challenges.

  • Paediatric: Children need paediatric nephrology to support their growth and development. Genetic predisposition and family history of kidney problems play a role. Monitoring of growth, nutritional support and dialysis at the right size is key. Parental involvement is important especially for home treatments like peritoneal dialysis.
  • Elderly: Elderly patients have comorbidities like diabetes and hypertension that complicates kidney failure treatment. Care should consider overall health and minimise discomfort and maximise quality of life. Treatments may be adjusted to be less invasive and accommodate decreased mobility and cognitive function.
  • Ethnic: Ethnicity affects kidney failure management as risk and disease progression varies among groups like Malay and Indian patients. Treatment should take into account genetic, social and access to care differences and culturally sensitive care and medication response.

Kidney Failure Treatment Advances

  • New developments in kidney failure treatment gives hope to patients and their families. New treatments and research is showing promising results in reversing kidney damage.
  • Researchers in Singapore are working on treatments that can reverse kidney damage. This new approach has shown success in mice and human trials started in 2023. If it’s successful it can change the fate of kidney failure patients.
  • Another exciting development is the introduction of SGLT2 inhibitors. Originally developed for diabetes, these drugs are now being used to treat chronic kidney disease. Medications like canagliflozin, dapagliflozin and empagliflozin are being called game changers.
  • Innovations in dialysis and kidney transplantation are also noteworthy. Technological advancements aim to reduce the risks of dialysis and improve the success of transplants. Modern kidney replacement technology for example addresses the issue of donor shortage and complications from dialysis.

FAQs

Is Kidney Dialysis Painful?

No, kidney dialysis itself is typically not painful, but some patients may experience discomfort during the procedure. Let your nurses know if you’re uncomfortable and they can adjust the process for greater comfort.

How Long Can I Live With Kidney Failure?

Kidney failure doesn’t get better on its own. Your life expectancy with kidney failure is determined by your age and overall health. But there are treatments that can add years to your life:

  • Dialysis: This can add 5-10 years to your life. Dialysis does the work of the kidneys – filters waste from the blood.
  • Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant: A deceased donor kidney typically lasts 10-15 years on average. A more permanent solution for kidney function.
  • Living Donor Transplant: A living donor kidney can last even longer, 15-20 years for the transplanted kidney.

If you don’t want to pursue these treatments, medical management is an option. This is supportive care that focuses on symptoms and comfort, but doesn’t add life. The length of life under medical management is unknown. Your care team will work with you to get you the best care to live well.

Can Kidney Failure be Cured?

No, there is no cure for chronic kidney failure. However, dialysis or kidney transplant is available to manage the condition and improve quality of life. With advancements in technology, it’s now possible to live a long, fulfilling life even with a kidney failure diagnosis.

Can Kidney Failure Be Reversed?

Acute kidney failure can be reversed if treated early, but chronic kidney failure is not reversible and treatment is focused on slowing the disease and managing symptoms through dialysis or transplant.

Can I Die Suddenly from Kidney Failure?

While kidney failure is a serious condition, sudden death is rare if the disease is being managed with medical supervision. However, complications from kidney failure can be life threatening. These can include fluid overload, severe electrolyte imbalance and heart issues. This is why we encourage prompt action at the first warning signs of kidney failure.

At What Age Do You Get Kidney Failure?

Kidney failure can happen at any age but it’s more common in older adults. The risk of kidney failure increases as we age, especially after 60. This is because conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease are more prevalent as we age and can cause kidney damage over time. The natural ageing process can also cause kidney function to decline.

Can Kidney Failure be Detected in Children?

Yes, kidney failure can be detected early in children with tests and evaluations. Risk factors are hereditary conditions, urinary tract infections or structural abnormalities. Early detection is key to management and better outcomes.

How do I Know if My Kidneys are Okay?

You can check your kidney function through blood tests that measure creatinine and blood urea nitrogen and urine tests that measures protein.

How Long Does It Take to Damage Kidneys?

Time to damage kidneys varies. Chronic conditions like glomerulonephritis can take years to decades, while acute injuries from dehydration or overdose can cause significant damage in days to weeks.

What Colour is my Urine if My Kidneys are Faulty?

Faulty kidneys can turn urine darker like tea or cola. You may also notice foamy or bubbly urine due to excess protein.

How Can I Flush my Kidneys Fast?

Drinking water is the safest and most effective way to help your kidneys flush out toxins. Staying hydrated is good for kidney function.

What Not to Drink if I Have Kidney Failure?

Avoid drinks high in phosphorus like cola and excess alcohol. Some herbal teas and supplements are also harmful so consult your doctor.

Is Kidney Failure Contagious?

No, kidney failure is not contagious. It’s caused by conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure and not spread from person to person.

Medical References

Karlin, Jennifer, et al. “Dialysis or Death: A Qualitative Study of Older Patients’ and Their Families’ Understanding of Kidney Failure Treatment Options in a US Public Hospital Setting.” Kidney Medicine, vol. 1, no. 3, May 2019, pp. 124–30, doi:10.1016/j.xkme.2019.04.003.

Srivastava, Anand, et al. “Uric Acid and the Risks of Kidney Failure and Death in Individuals With CKD.” American Journal of Kidney Diseases, vol. 71, no. 3, Mar. 2018, pp. 362–70, doi:10.1053/j.ajkd.2017.08.017.

Williams, Debra M., et al. “Acute Kidney Failure.” Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, vol. 156, no. 9, Sept. 2002, p. 893, doi:10.1001/archpedi.156.9.893.

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