helpdesk@kidneyaid.org
Kidney Aid Organization
CKD and Mineral Bone Disease | What You Need To Know
Terry Scott
February 8, 2023
4:19 am
CKD and Mineral Bone Disease
CKD and Mineral Bone Disease. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose function over time. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood, regulating blood pressure, producing hormones, and maintaining healthy bones. As kidney function declines, waste products and fluid build up in the body, leading to a number of health problems.

Mineral and Bone Disorder (MBD) is a common complication of CKD and refers to a group of abnormalities in the levels of minerals and vitamins in the body, especially calcium, phosphorus, and Vitamin D. These imbalances can cause a number of problems, including thinning bones (osteoporosis), softening bones (osteomalacia), and the formation of calcium-based kidney stones. MBD can also lead to other complications, such as muscle weakness, muscle cramps, and heart and blood vessel disease.

 As kidney function decreases in CKD, they are unable to properly regulate these minerals, leading to imbalances. High levels of phosphorus, low levels of calcium, and impaired activation of vitamin D can result in MBD. This, in turn, can lead to decreased bone density, an increased risk of fractures, and the development of secondary hyperparathyroidism, which is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone, leading to further bone loss.

 Treatment for MBD in CKD often involves controlling the levels of minerals and vitamins in the blood through diet and medication, as well as addressing the underlying cause of the kidney disease. Regular monitoring and care from a nephrologist (a doctor who specializes in kidney disease) is also important to manage both CKD and MBD effectively.

Are There Treatments For Mineral Bone Disease In Chronic Kidney Disease Patients?

Yes, there are treatments available for Mineral Bone Disease (MBD) in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients. The main goal of treatment is to correct the imbalances of minerals and hormones that occur as a result of declining kidney function. Some of the common treatments include:

  1. Dietary modifications: This involves limiting the intake of phosphorus and increasing the intake of calcium in the diet.

  2. Phosphorus binders: These are medications that help to decrease the absorption of phosphorus from the diet.

  3. Vitamin D supplements: This is to compensate for the impaired activation of vitamin D that occurs in CKD.

  4. Calcium supplements: This is to help maintain proper calcium levels in the body.

  5. Active forms of vitamin D: These are used to increase the level of calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, in the body.

  6. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove overactive parathyroid glands that are producing too much hormone and contributing to MBD.

It's important to note that the treatments for MBD in CKD patients may change as the disease progresses and kidney function declines, so regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary. It is also important for CKD patients to work closely with their healthcare team to manage their MBD and maintain good overall health.

What Are The Symptoms Of Mineral Bone Disease In Chronic Kidney Disease Patients?

Mineral Bone Disease (MBD) in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  1. Bone pain or tenderness: This can occur as a result of decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures.

  2. Muscle weakness: This can result from decreased calcium levels in the body.

  3. Fatigue: This can be a symptom of anemia, which is common in CKD patients.

  4. Numbness or tingling in the extremities: This can occur as a result of increased levels of phosphorus in the body, which can cause nerve damage.
  5. Itching: This can occur as a result of high levels of phosphorus in the skin.

  6. Cardiovascular complications: MBD in CKD patients has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes.

  7. Impaired wound healing: Decreased calcium levels can impair the healing process.

It's important to note that the symptoms of MBD in CKD patients may not be noticeable in the early stages of the disease and may develop gradually over time. Regular monitoring and management of MBD is important to prevent complications and maintain good overall health in CKD patients.

 

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions