Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD) refers to the gradual loss of kidney function over time due to medical conditions that weaken kidney function.
What is Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Kidneys play many important roles in a child’s overall health. They make urine, and filter water and waste out of the blood. Kidneys also balance salts and minerals that circulate in the blood, and make hormones that control blood pressure and create red blood cells. When the kidney doesn't function properly, it can lead health complications and kidney failure.
CKD does not disappear with treatment and often gets worse over time.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Children in the early stages of chronic kidney disease may not show any symptoms. The following symptoms may not be apparent until the disease is more serious:
Burning pain while urinating
Difficulty sleeping
Dry, itchy skin
Fever
Frequent urination, especially at night, and having accidents during the day
Muscle cramps at night
Pain in the back, side or lower belly
Poor appetite
Swelling of the feet, ankles, legs or puffy eyes in the morning
What are the causes of Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Chronic kidney disease in children can result from an acute (sudden) kidney injury that doesn’t improve, or any of the other following causes:
Chronic, severe high blood pressure
Frequent dehydration
Infections
Inherited diseases (including polycystic kidney disease)
Obstructions, like kidney stones or tumors
Repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Doctors and Providers
