It is stated that approximately 26 million American adults are affected by kidney disease. This illness occurs when your kidneys are damaged and thus would not be able to function well. Our kidneys are crucial for having a healthy body. This is because they are the ones who are responsible for filtering the wastes, excess water, and impurities out of our blood. These organs are also responsible for regulating the levels of pH salt and potassium in our bodies.
They still have a lot of other relevant tasks, but it is safe to say that our health would decline without them. If the disease worsens, it might also lead to the kidneys to stop working altogether. Dialysis would then be needed. But, this is a very costly treatment. That is why organizations like the Kidney Foundation Pickup and other health charities help alleviate some of the financial burdens for patients who need it.
The Types and Causes of Kidney Disease
1. Urinary Tract Infections
These are bacterial infections on the urinary system. They are often infections in the urethra and the bladder. They are easily treated if diagnosed early. But, if left untreated over time, the infections could spread and lead to kidney failure.
2. Glomerulonephritis
This occurs because of the inflammation of the glomeruli, which are tiny structures inside the kidneys. They are responsible for filtering the blood. These types of health issues are usually caused by infections, congenital abnormalities, or drugs, among others.
3. Kidney Stones
This is another kidney problem that happens when minerals and other substances in the blood crystallize in the kidneys. These will form solid masses, often called stones. Kidney stones also often come out of the body when you urinate. These can be extremely painful if not taken out.
4. Polycystic Kidney Disease
This disease happens because of a genetic disorder where numerous cysts grow in the kidneys. The said cysts can interfere with kidney function and will result in kidney failure if left untreated. This is a serious condition as opposed to individual kidney cysts, which are common and usually harmless.
5. Chronic kidney disease
This is one of the most common forms of kidney disease. This is a long-term condition and will have no improvement over time. It is often caused by high blood pressure, which is dangerous for the kidneys. Another cause of this disease is diabetes. The increased sugar level in the blood damages the blood vessels in the kidneys as time passes by, which means that the kidneys would not be able to clean the blood properly. This will result in kidney failure, which will require dialysis. For those who do not have the finances for it, this is where charities such as the Kidney Foundation Pickup can be of assistance. These types of organizations will help in raising enough money to help out with the costs.
The Benefits of Giving
Various patients require financial help, from kidney disease patients to cancer patients. All of them should have the opportunity to get the best healthcare there is. They should not be discouraged because they do not have the means to pay for medical help. That is why charities and other organizations or foundations should be supported. All of us want a chance at life, and it is every human’s right to live and have access to better healthcare. No one should be denied these things because they lack funds. Thus, for the said reasons, make sure to donate and reach out to those in need of help.
