Every day, about one thousand in the United States are diagnosed with kidney disease in children. This means that one in every four hundred children has some form of kidney disease. The good news is that many of these conditions are treatable and even reversible. The bad news is that most children with kidney disease don’t know they have it until it’s too late.
Kidney disease can affect any child, but some groups of children are more at risk than others. Boys are more likely to develop kidney disease than girls, and African American and Hispanic children are also at higher risk than white children. Children with diabetes or high blood pressure are also more likely to develop kidney disease.
The most common symptoms of kidney disease in children are swelling of the feet and ankles, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite.
Causes
Kidney disease is a serious medical condition that can affect people of any age, race, or gender. While it can occur in adults, it is more common in children. There are many different causes of kidney disease in children, but some of the most common include genetics, infections, and injuries. If left untreated, kidney disease can lead to a number of serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and even death. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for ensuring the best possible outcome for affected children.
Symptoms
Kidney disease can affect anyone, of any age, race, or gender. For children, the symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all until the disease is in its later stages. The most common symptoms of kidney disease in children include: -anemia -poor growth and development -weakness and fatigue -fainting or dizziness -nausea and vomiting -blood in the urine (hematuria) Causes Kidney disease that can occur for a number of reasons, including -infection -blockage.
Diagnosis
According to the National Kidney Foundation, one in three American children are at risk of developing kidney disease. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the better the chance of preventing serious health complications. Unfortunately, many pediatricians are not familiar with the early signs and symptoms of kidney disease in children and may not order the necessary tests to make a diagnosis.
The most common symptoms of kidney disease in children are excessive thirst and urination, weakness, poor appetite, nausea and vomiting, and changes in skin color. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses, so it is important to see a doctor if your child displays any of them.
The doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your child’s medical history. He or she may also order blood and urine tests to check for signs of kidney damage.
Treatment
Kidney disease in children can be caused by a variety of things, including genetic disorders, infections, and injuries. Treatment for kidney disease in children generally depends on the underlying cause. If the child has a genetic disorder that is causing the kidney disease, treatment may involve medications or surgery. If the child has an infection or injury that is causing the kidney disease, treatment may involve antibiotics or surgery. In some cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary.
Prevention
One of the best ways to prevent your child from developing a mental illness is to be proactive and get them to help early. Parents can do this by looking for warning signs and getting their child screened and evaluated by a mental health professional if necessary. Another way to help prevent your child from developing a mental illness is to ensure that they have a good support system, including healthy relationships with family and friends. It’s also important for parents to provide a nurturing home environment that is free from abuse and neglect. Finally, parents should ensure that their child has access to quality mental health care if needed.
Conclusion
Kidney disease in children can be a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. In some cases, the kidneys may completely fail, and the child will require dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive. There are several different types of kidney disease, each with its own set of symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the best possible outcome. If you suspect that your child may have kidney disease, please see a doctor right away.