What Are the Most Common Myths About Chronic Kidney Disease?

Diagnosis and treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are often delayed because confusion, fear, and half-truths surround this health issue. Understanding what a myth is and what is fact will help you protect your kidneys by asking the right questions and pursuing prompt medical guidance.

Let's explore the top myths that surround CKD and the facts and guidance from the best kidney hospital in India.

Top Myths About Chronic Kidney Disease

Knowing about the myths about CKD is important, along with other problem-specific information. Here are the misconceptions that may stop you from visiting the best nephrologist in Ahmedabad

Myth #1: If I Feel Fine, My Kidneys Are Also Fine

Many people feel that CKD shows severe symptoms, such as pain or severe fatigue. In reality, the early-stage CKD is a 'silent' condition. Most patients may feel completely normal. Symptoms such as swelling, nausea, or breathlessness typically appear at relatively advanced stages.

So, even if you feel well, regular blood and urine checkups from a nephrologist are essential, especially when you have diabetes, have high blood pressure, or have a family history of kidney problems.

Myth #2: Kidney Disease Is Rare

This is another misconception about CKD that it affects only a tiny portion of the population. However, studies indicate that about 10% of the global population. The risk of CKD increases for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of kidney issues.

Myth #3: I Pass a Lot of Urine, So My Kidneys Are Healthy

People usually equate sound urine output with good kidney health. However, damaged kidneys fail to filter toxins from your blood, while producing normal, or sometimes higher, amounts of urine.​ In CKD, the ability to filter waste products from the blood may decline even when urine volume appears normal.

Myth #4: Drinking Lots of Water Can Prevent or Cure CKD

Though staying adequately hydrated is vital for kidney health, drinking too much amounts of water doesn't flush out kidney disease or repair the damage. In some patients with advanced CKD, consuming excess water may worsen swelling, breathlessness, and blood pressure.

Therefore, it is vital to understand that water needs vary according to the disease stage, heart function, and climate. It is advisable to consult the experts at a reputed kidney hospital for a personalized diet and hydration plan.

Myth #5: Only Older People Fall Prey to CKD

Age has always been a risk factor for CKD, yet it can affect adults of almost all ages and even children. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune disorders, genetic kidney diseases, and recurrent infections can damage the kidneys at a younger age.

Myth #6: CKD Always Leads to Dialysis or Transplant

Many patients feel that when they are diagnosed with CKD, dialysis and transplant are inevitable. However, when the nephrologists manage the conditions of patients with early or moderate CKD, they never reach kidney failure.

Regular follow-up with a kidney specialist helps delay disease progression by personalizing treatment. Reasonable control of diabetes, high blood pressure, and lifestyle habits can remarkably slow the decline in kidney function.

Myth #7: Dialysis is the Only Treatment for Kidney Disease

Many patients feel that once diagnosed with CKD, dialysis is the only option to survive. However, expert nephrologists can manage early-stage conditions with a combination of medicines, fluid control, diet changes, and consistent observation.

Dialysis is required when the kidneys are severely damaged and unable to sustain crucial functions.

Myth #8: Kidney Disease is Not Preventable if I Have a Family History

Even when kidney disease runs in families, early diagnosis and lifestyle alterations can delay or prevent severe damage.

People with a family history should undergo regular screening for kidney function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. Genetic counselling, tailored monitoring, and a balanced diet are vital to avoid CKD among people with hereditary kidney issues.

Myth #9: Painkillers and Herbal Remedies Are Always Safe for the Kidneys

Some over-the-counter painkillers, especially NSAIDs, may damage kidney function due to their regular or high-dose usage. Similarly, unregulated herbal supplements may contain toxins or heavy metals that burden the kidneys.

Please avoid long-term self-medication of painkillers and ensure that the so-called ‘natural’ ingredients of herbal supplements are scientifically tested for kidney safety. Always rely on your doctor for regular medication and discuss any herbal medicines or painkillers with him or her before regular usage.

Final Thoughts

Correct information and timely, expert diagnosis can change the way you manage chronic kidney disease. Devasya Hospital strives in these areas to make a difference. With comprehensive nephrology services, advanced diagnostics, and the latest technology and equipment for dialysis and critical care, the hospital supports you in every stage.

If you are seeking the best hospital for kidney problems that combines medical proficiency with comprehensive, patient-focused care, please explore more resources, services, and appointment options on Devasya Hospital's official website.

Quick Answers to Common Myths About Chronic Kidney Disease

Q1: When should I visit a kidney hospital for kidney disease?

Please visit a specialized kidney care center if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, if you notice changes in urination pattern, foamy or bloody urine, or if you have abnormal kidney reports.

Q2: Is it necessary to choose the best hospital for kidney problems?

Reputed kidney hospitals, like Devasya Hospital can treat the most early-stage cases. When the hospital is well-equipped, nephrologists can effectively provide diet and dialysis services and, when necessary, transplant pathways.

Q3: How can I find the best nephrologist in Ahmedabad for my condition?

Please look for a properly accredited kidney hospital with a team of board-certified nephrologists that can offer diet, dialysis, and transplant support.

Q4: Which is the best kidney hospital in India for holistic and reliable care?

Devasya Hospital is the best kidney hospital in India, delivering an all-encompassing, patient-focused approach to kidney care by combining urology, nephrology, lifestyle counseling, diet, dialysis, and critical care under one roof.