The Chronic Kidney Disease Solution™ By Shelly Manning It is an eBook that includes the most popular methods to care and manage kidney diseases by following the information provided in it. This easily readable eBook covers up various important topics like what is chronic kidney disease, how it is caused, how it can be diagnosed, tissue damages caused by chronic inflammation, how your condition is affected by gut biome, choices for powerful lifestyle and chronic kidney disease with natural tools etc.
How does CKD affect recovery from surgeries?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has a great effect on surgical recovery, posing complications, delayed healing, and longer hospitalization. Here is how CKD influences recovery from surgery and what one can do to control risks:
1. Greater Risk of Infection
Weakened Immune System:
CKD weakens the immune system, so post-operative infections are more likely.
Wound healing might be delayed, with a higher risk of surgical site infection (SSI).
Greater Risk of Sepsis:
End-stage CKD or dialysis patients are at an increased risk for sepsis, a lethal infection that could lead to failure of organs.
Good hygiene, early antibiotic therapy, and strict monitoring are the key.
2. Impaired Wound Healing & Tissue Repair
Delayed Healing:
Uremia (toxin accumulation in the body) inhibits collagen synthesis and hence delays healing of tissues.
Reduced delivery of oxygen to tissues (due to anemia) also results in delay of wound healing.
Increased Risk of Surgical Complications:
CKD affects bone metabolism, and as a result, orthopedic surgeries are ill after healing.
Delayed healing of foot ulcers and amputations in patients with CKD, especially with diabetes.
3. Higher Cardiovascular Complications
Instability of Blood Pressure:
The majority of CKD patients develop elevated blood pressure, which may lead to unstable blood pressure during and after surgery.
Sudden drops in blood pressure (after anesthesia or dehydration) will worsen renal function.
Higher Risk of Heart Attack & Stroke:
CKD is also directly linked to heart disease, which raises the risk of post-operative heart attack, blood clot, or stroke.
Cardiologists commonly assess cardiac risk before elective surgery.
4. Fluid & Electrolyte Imbalance
Difficult Fluid Management:
CKD patients cannot efficiently excrete excess fluid, leading to swelling (edema) and hypertension.
Excess IV fluid will overload the lungs and heart, leading to pulmonary edema.
Electrolyte Shifts (Potassium, Sodium, Calcium):
CKD disrupts the balance of sodium and potassium, increasing the risk of arrhythmias after surgery.
IV fluids and electrolytes must be monitored tightly.
5. Risks from Anesthesia
Drug Metabolism is Slower:
Drugs are metabolized by CKD patients differently, with the increased risk that they will have prolonged sedation, confusion, or breathing problems.
Reduced doses of anesthetic medication may be needed.
Nephrotoxic Risks from Anesthesia:
Some anesthetic drugs may further damage the kidneys.
Nephrology consultation before surgery assists in selecting kidney-safe drugs.
6. Increased Risk of Blood Clots
Increased Risks of Bleeding and Clotting:
CKD alters the function of the platelets, making the patient prone to excessive bleeding and clotting.
Certain blood thinners may be necessary after surgery to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
7. Post-Surgery Medications & Kidney Function
Pain Medicines (NSAIDs) May Be Toxic:
Ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are toxic to the kidneys and need to be avoided.
Alternatives: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or opioids (cautiously).
Antibiotics Must Be Titrated in CKD
Some antibiotics (e.g., aminoglycosides) are nephrotoxic and should be dose adjusted.
Diuretics & Blood Pressure Medications Require Close Monitoring:
The medications ACE inhibitors or diuretics may need adjustment to prevent kidney stress following surgery.
8. Longer Hospital Stays & Recovery Time
Patients with CKD sometimes require extended post-operative care due to higher risks.
Nutrition and physical therapy are integral to the recovery process.
How CKD Patients Can Prepare for Surgery
✔ Pre-Surgery Nephrology Consultation
✔ Pre-Operative Optimization of Blood Pressure & Diabetes
✔ Gentle Fluid & Medication Management During Recovery
✔ Tight Infection, Blood Clot & Heart Surveillance
✔ Physical & Nutritional Therapy for Recovery
Would you like particular suggestions for a particular type of surgery?
Complementary therapy, that are therapies recommended alongside standard practice of medicine, can assist with the role of support in caring for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Although they should not be a replacement for established treatments like medications, dialysis, or lifestyle modification, complementary therapy has the ability to regulate symptoms, promote quality of life, and improve the seriousness of the condition. Some illustrations of complementary therapy utilized in the management of CKD are:
1. Acupuncture
Role: Acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to stimulate the energy flow and may help reduce pain and improve blood flow.
Benefits for CKD Patients:
Relief from pain due to musculoskeletal pain, which is common in CKD due to bone mineral disorders.
Reduction in stress and anxiety, which are heightened by the chronic nature of CKD.
Some research has indicated that acupuncture can assist with reducing blood pressure and enhancing kidney function, but more studies are required.
2. Herbal Medicine
Function: Herbal supplements are utilized to enhance health and control symptoms. Some herbs can be beneficial for the kidneys, but others need to be used cautiously, as they can interact with drugs or negatively affect kidney function.
Common Herbs Used in CKD:
Astragalus: Thought to support immune function and kidney function.
Nettle leaf: Typically used to support urinary tract health as well as to reduce inflammation.
Turmeric (Curcumin): Renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Hazards: Some herbs, like licorice, may have a negative impact on kidney function, particularly in those with high blood pressure. Always consult a health practitioner before using herbal remedies.
3. Massage Therapy
Role: Massage is the manipulation of pressure to soft tissues and muscles of the body to promote relaxation and pain relief.
Benefits to CKD Patients:
Decreases muscle tension and pain, particularly from dialysis or peripheral neuropathy.
Reduction of stress and anxiety is beneficial in coping with the emotional component of CKD.
May enhance circulation, which may be important to kidney function as well as fluid management.
4. Yoga and Meditation
Role: Yoga employs physical postures and breathing exercises to increase strength and flexibility. Meditation employs relaxation and awareness.
Advantages for CKD Patients:
Stress reduction: Helps to deal with emotional and psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression, which often accompany CKD.
Blood pressure control: Regular practice could lower blood pressure, a key promoter of CKD progression.
Improved physical mobility: Gentle yoga maintains joint health and flexibility, which can benefit CKD patients with bone and muscle issues.
Mindfulness meditation may improve overall well-being and sleep.
5. Aromatherapy
Purpose: Aromatherapy utilizes essential oils for therapeutic purposes. It may be applied through diffusion, topical application, or inhalation.
Benefits to CKD Patients:
Stress relief: Oils such as lavender and chamomile are known for their calming effects.
Improved sleep: Some essential oils, such as lavender and bergamot, have the ability to relax and improve the quality of sleep.
Pain relief: Peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil are capable of relieving joint and muscle pain, which is common in CKD patients due to conditions such as osteodystrophy.
6. Dietary Supplements (e.g., Omega-3 Fatty Acids)
Role: Omega-3 fatty acids, typically from fish oil, are supplements with anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits for CKD Patients:
Reduced inflammation: Omega-3s may reduce inflammation in the kidneys and other parts of the body, retarding CKD progression.
Cardiovascular protection: Omega-3s are good for the heart, which is particularly beneficial in CKD patients who are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Kidney function support: Omega-3s may enhance proteinuria (protein in urine), a common condition in CKD.
7. Tai Chi and Qigong
Role: These are mind-body exercises that combine slow, flowing movements with conscious breathing.
Benefits for CKD Patients:
Improved balance and coordination, which can avoid falls, especially in those with severe CKD.
Pain reduction and relaxation: Relieves muscle aches and pains from CKD complications like neuropathy.
Stress reduction: Promotes overall well-being by enhancing emotional and psychological well-being.
8. Biofeedback
Role: Biofeedback uses sensors to monitor physiological processes like heart rate, muscle tension, and skin temperature, enabling individuals to achieve voluntary control over these processes.
Benefits for CKD Patients:
May reduce stress and blood pressure.
May assist in pain management by inducing relaxation and reducing anxiety.
Precautions & Considerations
Consult Healthcare Providers: Always consult your health care provider or nephrologist before starting any complementary therapy, especially herbal remedies, as they can interact with dialysis or medications.
Quality and Dosage: Most complementary therapies, especially herbs and supplements, are uncontrolled. Ensure that you use quality products and follow proper dosages.
Complementary, Not Alternative: Complementary therapies should be used in addition to conventional treatment, not instead of.
Would you like information on any specific complementary therapies in the treatment of CKD?
The Chronic Kidney Disease Solution™ By Shelly Manning It is an eBook that includes the most popular methods to care and manage kidney diseases by following the information provided in it. This easily readable eBook covers up various important topics like what is chronic kidney disease, how it is caused, how it can be diagnosed, tissue damages caused by chronic inflammation, how your condition is affected by gut biome, choices for powerful lifestyle and chronic kidney disease with natural tools etc.