Kidney Diseases: Management and Emerging Therapies

Kidney diseases are the diseases that can affect or damage the kidneys. Diabetes and hypertension are the major risk factors for kidney disease and can cause kidney failure. Diabetes causes higher levels of sugar in blood that damages the kidneys and decreases their ability to filter waste and fluid from the blood, causing kidney disease over time. High blood pressure is the second most common cause of kidney failure, after diabetes. It narrows the blood vessels which reduces the blood flow and obstructs the normal functioning of kidneys. Eating healthy, being physically active and taking medicine on time can help slow the progression and prevent damage to kidneys. Renin-angiotensin system blockade, glycemic and blood pressure control are generally used therapeutic approaches for managing kidney diseases, but there are emerging therapies which focus on delaying fibrosis development and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, certain lifestyle changes, like managing stress, weight, and diet are also helpful in the management and prevention of kidney diseases. The aim of this book is to present researches that have transformed the study of kidney diseases. It attempts to understand the various interventions used for the management of kidney diseases as well as the emerging therapies.