End Stage Renal Disease

End stage renal disease symptoms include reduced urine output, swelling of the legs, ankles, and feet, and persistent fatigue. Patients may also experience nausea, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, and difficulty concentrating along with muscle cramps, itchy skin, and a metallic taste.

End stage renal disease diagnosis begins with a clinical assessment and medical history review. Blood tests measure serum creatinine and estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a key indicator of kidney function. Urine tests detect protein (albuminuria). Renal ultrasound assesses kidney size and structure. Where the cause remains unclear, a renal biopsy may be performed to help determine the underlying diagnosis.

End stage renal disease treatment options include renal replacement therapy such as dialysis (haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) and kidney transplantation. Supportive care involves medications for blood pressure, anaemia, and bone health, along with dietary modifications and regular monitoring of electrolytes like potassium, sodium, calcium, and phosphate.

At Manipal Hospitals, patients seeking end stage renal disease treatment receive comprehensive care from the first consultation. Diagnostic investigations confirm the diagnosis and identify contributing conditions. Nephrologists, dietitians, and specialist nurses collaborate to develop a personalised treatment plan.

Doctors tailor medical management based on the underlying cause, degree of kidney function, comorbidities, treatment tolerance, and patient preferences. Patients starting dialysis (haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) receive education and ongoing clinical support, while those on haemodialysis are trained in vascular access care. Patients eligible for kidney transplantation are guided through evaluation, listing, and post-transplant care.

Dietitians prescribe an individualised diet with adequate protein intake (often higher for patients on dialysis), with restrictions on sodium, potassium, and phosphate. Fluid intake may be limited based on urine output and dialysis modality.

Haemodialysis may cause muscle cramps and hypotension, while peritoneal dialysis can lead to peritonitis or catheter-related infections with fever and abdominal pain. Moreover, ESRD may cause bone disease, hypertension, cardiovascular issues, neuropathy, and anaemia. Regular follow-up and advanced care help improve outcomes and quality of life.