Neeruhaigus

Neeruhaigus is the Estonian term for kidney disease, a broad set of conditions that impair the kidneys’ ability to filter blood, balance fluids and electrolytes, and produce hormones. Kidneys remove wastes and help regulate blood pressure, red blood cells, and bone metabolism.

Two major forms are acute kidney injury (AKI), a rapid decline in function, and chronic kidney disease (CKD), a gradual loss over months or years. Common causes include diabetes and hypertension, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, urinary tract obstruction, infections, and nephrotoxins.

Symptoms may be mild early on. Later, swelling, fatigue, reduced or foamy urine, dark urine, nausea, shortness of breath, or confusion can occur. Advanced CKD may cause itching, anemia, and bone problems.

Diagnosis uses blood tests for creatinine and eGFR, urine tests for protein, imaging, and sometimes kidney biopsy. CKD is staged from 1 to 5 by eGFR to guide treatment and prognosis.

Treatment targets the cause and slows progression. This includes blood pressure and glucose control, often with ACE inhibitors or ARBs, dietary changes, and management of complications. End-stage disease may require dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Prevention focuses on managing risk factors, regular screening for people with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history, and avoiding nephrotoxins. The outlook depends on stage and cause; early detection improves outcomes and reduces complications such as cardiovascular disease and anemia.