Case Managers Can Help Clients Reduce Risk Factors, Avoid Complications
In the back wall of a human’s abdominal cavity are two small organs. Each is the size of a computer mouse. These organs – kidneys – filter all the blood inside the body every 30 minutes to remove toxins, excess fluid, and waste material. They also secrete hormones to help regulate blood pressure and stimulate red blood cell production and other chemicals crucial to life.
In the U.S., 30 million people live with chronic kidney disease (CKD), also known as chronic kidney failure. Risk factors include including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or having a family member with kidney disease. People over age 60 are also at greater risk.
Early detection and management of health conditions than can lead to kidney disease is vital. Both help prevent progression leading to kidney failure, and ultimately the need for a transplant or dialysis. Care managers can be invaluable to people who are at risk for kidney disease or are already experiencing it.
How Kidney Disease Affects the Body
When kidneys begin to fail, waste products and toxins are not being adequately filtered and removed from the body. The additional toxic load can cause trouble sleeping, skin conditions, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Some people experience swelling in the feet and ankles, as well as fluid in the lungs, making breathing difficult.