Chronic diseases, especially diabetes and hypertension can damage the kidneys. Both diseases can cause the initial insult to the kidney, or speed the progression of any existing renal failure.
Controlling
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blood sugar and blood pressure is essential to delay further decline in renal function. The incidence of high blood pressure and diabetes are on the increase in western society as well as developing countries due to lifestyle and dietary habits.
Certain kidney diseases like glomerulonephritis and pyelonephritis can become chronic inflammatory conditions that destroy kidney cells. Obstruction in the urinary tract is a potentially reversible cause of CRF and therefore important to keep in mind.
Long-term exposure to certain drugs, e.g. painkillers and toxins can also lead to CRF, including lead and mercury. Avoiding these can help prevent further deterioration of kidney function.
Written by Dr K. Coetzee, reviewed by Dr R. Moosa, head of the Renal Unit, Tygerberg Academic Hospital.
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