End Stage Renal Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Bhaskara Rao Beesetty , Nephrologist

End Stage Renal Disease is the last stage of chronic kidney disease, marked by almost complete loss of kidney function. It develops gradually, often due to long-standing health issues like diabetes or hypertension. Symptoms may range from tiredness and swelling to severe complications affecting multiple organs.

Early diagnosis and awareness of causes are vital for effective management. Treatment includes dialysis or kidney transplant, plus diet and lifestyle changes. Proper care helps patients live healthier and lowers complication risks.

What are the Symptoms and Warning Signs of End-Stage Renal Disease?

As kidney function declines significantly, ESRD can produce symptoms that severely impact various parts of the body. Recognizing these signs early helps ensure timely treatment and improved quality of life.

Common End-Stage Renal Disease Symptoms:

Fatigue (due to toxin buildup in the blood)
Swelling in legs, ankles, and feet
Shortness of breath (caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs)
Nausea and vomiting
Persistent itching
Changes in urination (very little or no urine output)
Chest pain (from inflammation around the heart)

What are the Different Types of End-Stage Renal Disease?

There are no multiple types of ESRD, but it is the final stage of various kidney-related diseases. The term refers to the irreversible loss of kidney function, regardless of the initial cause. It requires either dialysis or a kidney transplant to sustain life.

What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of End-Stage Renal Disease?

ESRD results from the progressive deterioration of kidney function over time. Several medical conditions can contribute to this decline.

End-Stage Renal Disease Causes

Diabetes: The most common cause. High blood sugar damages the kidney blood vessels.
Hypertension: High blood pressure damages kidney arteries, reducing their ability to filter blood.
Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units, leading to scarring.
Polycystic Kidney Disease: A genetic disorder causing cyst formation and kidney failure.
Other Causes: Recurrent kidney infections, urinary tract obstructions, and autoimmune diseases.

Risk Factors of End-Stage Renal Disease

Chronic high blood pressure
Long-term diabetes
Family history of kidney disease
Certain genetic disorders
Prolonged use of certain medications

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

How is End-Stage Renal Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of ESRD involves assessing kidney function through lab and imaging studies. Early and accurate diagnosis supports better treatment planning.

Common Diagnostic Tests:

Blood Tests: Measure creatinine and urea nitrogen, indicating waste buildup.
Urine Tests: Detect protein or blood in urine, signs of kidney damage.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or CT scans reveal kidney size and structural abnormalities.
Kidney Biopsy: In selected cases, it helps determine the underlying cause of kidney failure.

What are the Treatment Options for End-Stage Renal Disease?

Treatment for ESRD focuses on replacing lost kidney function and managing associated complications. A combination of therapies and lifestyle adjustments is required. Dialysis:

Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered using a machine, typically three times a week at a dialysis center.
Peritoneal Dialysis: Uses the peritoneum (abdominal lining) to filter blood at home, done daily.

Kidney Transplant

A healthy kidney from a donor is surgically placed in the patient's body. This option, available to eligible patients, offers a significantly improved quality of life compared to dialysis.

Medications

Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents (ESAs): Treat anemia by boosting red blood cell production.
Phosphate Binders: Reduce high phosphate levels.
Vitamin D Supplements: Maintain bone health.
Antihypertensives: Manage blood pressure to slow further damage. Lifestyle Changes:
Dietary Modifications: Restrict sodium, potassium, and phosphorus; guided by a renal dietitian.
Regular Exercise: Helps maintain strength and well-being.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can worsen kidney damage.

When to See a Doctor?

Individuals experiencing ESRD symptoms or at high risk (e.g., with diabetes or high blood pressure) should see a doctor immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to slowing disease progression and preventing emergency complications.

High-Risk Groups Needing Prompt Consultation

Diabetic or hypertensive patients
Individuals with a family history of kidney disease
Patients with abnormal blood or urine test results

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Consult End Stage Renal Disease Doctors Today

What Is the Recovery Process After End-Stage Renal Disease Treatment?

While ESRD cannot be cured, recovery focuses on adapting to treatment and improving life quality through ongoing care and lifestyle changes. Post-Treatment Care Includes:

Follow-up Schedule: Regular lab work, physical exams, and dialysis or transplant checkups.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Nutrition, physical activity, and stress reduction.
Support Services: Emotional and psychological support for patients and families.

Long-Term Outlook

With consistent treatment and follow-up, patients can manage ESRD effectively and lead fulfilling lives. Transplant recipients often experience increased independence and improved health.

What Precautions Can Help Prevent End-Stage Renal Disease?

Preventing ESRD begins with the early management of underlying causes and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Prevention

Manage Diabetes and Hypertension: Keep blood sugar and blood pressure under control.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Exercise, a balanced diet, no smoking, and limited alcohol.
Regular Check-Ups: Early detection and management of kidney issues prevent progression.

Complications of Untreated ESRD

Cardiovascular disease
Bone disease
Anemia
Infections
Fluid overload

Our Experience Treating End-Stage Renal Disease

At Medicover, we provide complete care for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) through a team of nephrologists, dialysis specialists, transplant surgeons, dietitians, and counselors. With advanced facilities and individual treatment plans, we help patients manage their conditions effectively and lead healthier, improved lives.

Find Our Specialists

Book Doctor Appointment

Name*

Mobile Number*

I agree to the Medicover Privacy Policy

International Patient Services

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many people on dialysis can travel with proper planning. Coordinate with your dialysis center in advance to schedule sessions at your destination. If you're on peritoneal dialysis, you may carry supplies and manage treatment yourself during travel.

Living with ESRD can impact emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, or stress. Counseling, support groups, and open communication with healthcare providers can help manage mental health effectively.

Acute kidney failure is a sudden loss of kidney function, often reversible with prompt treatment. ESRD is a long-term, irreversible condition that requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to sustain life.

Yes, many ESRD patients continue working, especially with flexible work arrangements and support from employers. Your treatment schedule and physical condition will determine the feasibility.

Yes, but ESRD and its treatments may affect libido and performance. It's important to discuss concerns with your doctor, as solutions like medication adjustments or counseling may help.

Some patients explore complementary therapies like yoga, meditation, or acupuncture for symptom relief. Always consult your nephrologist before starting any non-traditional therapy to ensure safety and avoid interference with standard treatments.

Caregivers should stay informed about the condition, assist with medications or dialysis routines, monitor for signs of complications, and encourage lifestyle compliance. Emotional support and self-care for the caregiver are equally important.