Understanding the underlying cause of your chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a critical step in managing your health. It empowers you to make informed decisions, pursue the most effective treatment options, and protect both yourself and your loved ones. By identifying the root cause or type—whether from an underlying medical issue (diabetic nephropathy) or a genetic mutation (Alport syndrome, ADPKD)—you can work with your doctor to avoid unnecessary treatments, explore advanced medical options, and take preventive measures for your overall well-being. Learn more about why knowing the cause of your kidney disease is essential.*

Make Informed Decisions About Treatment

Choosing the Right Treatment Path

Determining the cause of your kidney disease can help you and your doctor develop the best treatment strategy. Whether your condition is reversible, requires dialysis, or makes you a candidate for a kidney transplant, knowing the cause ensures you receive appropriate care and avoid ineffective treatments.

Assessing Kidney Transplant Eligibility

For individuals with kidney failure, a transplant can provide a longer and healthier life. Identifying the cause of kidney disease helps in:

• Weighing the risks and benefits of a transplant
• Determining eligibility for a transplant waiting list
• Protecting a new kidney after transplant, as studies show that those unaware of their disease’s cause have higher risks of rejection

Exploring Clinical Trials

Some individuals may qualify for clinical trials, which test new treatments, improve existing therapies, and advance early detection methods. Knowing the cause of your kidney disease increases your chances of accessing these potentially beneficial trials.

Protect Your Overall Health

Many kidney diseases are linked to other serious health conditions such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Knowing what caused your kidney disease allows for better prevention and management of these complications.

Uncertainty about your diagnosis can also lead to stress and worry. Identifying the cause of your kidney disease provides clarity, helping you understand potential disease progression and make proactive health decisions.

Safeguard Your Family’s Health

Certain genetic kidney diseases, such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD), can be inherited. If your condition is genetic, you and your partner can make informed choices about family planning and reproductive health.

If your kidney disease has a genetic component, your biological children may also be at risk. Knowing the cause allows them to take early preventive measures, including:

• Getting tested for early detection
• Adopting kidney-friendly lifestyle habits
• Managing conditions like high blood pressure to prevent kidney damage

Access Resources and Support

Identifying the cause of your kidney disease can also help connect you with valuable resources, including:

• Reliable information from medical websites specific to your condition
• Patient communities and online support groups
• Organizations like the PKD Foundation that focus on specific kidney diseases

If you need help finding these resources, speak with your doctor about consulting a social worker or case manager who can assist with insurance, scheduling tests, and navigating your care.

Takeaway

When receiving a diagnosis of CKD, ask your doctor about further steps you can take or tests you could undergo to uncover the specific type you have.

By learning the cause of your kidney disease, you gain the knowledge and tools necessary to take control of your health, make informed decisions, and safeguard both your well-being and that of your loved ones.

*American Kidney Fund. (n.d.) Why is it important to know the cause of your kidney disease? https://www.kidneyfund.org/kidney-disease-unknown-cause/why-it-important-know-cause-your-kidney-disease#:~ 

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