Stop the train!

Last time we talked about some of the acute effects that kidney disease and dialysis can have on the heart. Today we're going to talk about some of the chronic, or long-term effects on the heart.

Accelerated cardiovascular disease is a frequent complication of renal disease. High blood pressure is the leading contributor to kidney disease and unfortunately chronic kidney disease promotes continued hypertension which in turn can contribute to the progression of renal failure. Continued elevated blood pressure, along with other conditions that arise from kidney disease promotes atherosclerosis, of hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis leads to increased prevalence of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke.

All of this sounds very negative, and unfortunately it is a common progression among those with chronic kidney disease. Yet, thorough proper diet modifications and medically guided exercise this progression can be significantly slowed or even stopped in some cases. It is important to have a qualified dietician to oversee a good medical plan to limited the negative advances from chronic kidney disease, and it is important to have a proper medical professional (such as a physical therapist trained in Renal Rehab) to guide you through an exercise program. Again, with proper care the additional effects on the body that come from chronic kidney disease can be limited.

#renalrehab, #exercise, #kidneydisease, #cardiovascular