One of the greatest challenges in practice is treating resistant nephrotic syndrome in children. Nephrotic syndrome, which features protein wasting from the kidneys, will present at any age with edema, fatigue, hypercholesterolemia, and mildly elevated blood pressure. Over time there’s a high risk of permanent kidney damage, bone degeneration, cardiovascular disease, and muscle wasting. However, […]
Archives for July 2016
Autoimmunity: Lessons From the Field of Transplantation
In treating autoimmune diseases, there is much to be learned from the science of transplantation. Much of the innovation in medicine over the past 50 years has been in the field of transplantation, and these breakthroughs are affecting how autoimmune diseases are treated. Standard treatments for autoimmune diseases have frequently involved downregulating the immune system, […]
Inflammation and the Kidneys
Inflammatory conditions of the kidneys can present many challenges whether part of a systemic condition like lupus or a condition specific to the kidney such as IgA nephropathy or Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). These conditions are often resistant to treatment and require long term strategies and lifestyle changes to manage. While many patients will quickly […]
Kidney Skin Detox
Patients with chronic kidney disease are looking for a way to boost kidney function, and those with late stage kidney disease hope to stave off the need for dialysis or a transplant. Even healthy individuals who wish to improve their kidney look to herbal diuretics sold as detox products, to temporarily boost kidney output. Although […]
Proton Pump Inhibitors Associated With Chronic Kidney Disease
based on a study by Lazarus B, Chen Y, Wilson F, et al. Proton pump inhibitor use and the risk of chronic kidney disease. JAMA Intern Med. 2016;176(2):238-246. Published in Natural Health Journal Widely prescribed medications for stomach upset are not risk-free The use of proton pump inhibitors was once thought to be relatively harmless, […]
Keeping Your Fistula Running
For most dialysis patients, a fistula only lasts around 5 years. Fistulas can burst, collapse or become clotted. Then a new access site is created in the other forearm. That one lasts a few years and then one is placed in the upper arm on one side, then on the other side. Eventually, a fistula […]
Interview with Dr. Rich Snyder, author of What You Must Know about Dialysis: The Secrets to Surviving and Thriving on Dialysis
1. Many patients see dialysis as the end of their lives, what makes you feel so optimistic? Dialysis is the beginning of another journey, albeit a necessary one. It is not the end of one’s life. Yes, there are adjustments, there is a lot to learn, but I have seen people not only survive but […]