Kidney disease

Yes. To claim a Medicare rebate you need a GP referral to see a nephrologist (kidney specialist). Your GP will usually do blood and urine tests first. Many people with early kidney disease are managed by their GP and are referred if results show more significant changes or kidney function is falling quickly.

Yes, lifestyle changes play an essential role in managing kidney disease. These include following a kidney-friendly diet (low in sodium, phosphorus, and protein), controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, staying physically active, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight. These changes can help slow the progression of kidney disease and improve overall health.

Kidney disease can be caused by various factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic kidney infections, glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney's filtering units), polycystic kidney disease (a genetic condition), prolonged use of certain medications (like NSAIDs), and other conditions that affect kidney function. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Early-stage kidney disease may have no noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include fatigue, swollen ankles or feet, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating, persistent itching, muscle cramps, frequent urination (especially at night), blood in the urine, foamy urine, and high blood pressure. Severe kidney disease may cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fluid retention.