Life on dialysis is rarely just about the treatment itself. It is a complicated human experience shaped by competing emotions and practical realities. What we need to understand, fundamentally, is that dialysis is not just something happening to their kidneys. It is happening to their life. They may be grateful that dialysis is keeping them alive and, at the same time, hate how much of their week now revolves around treatment. They may talk hopefully about a transplant one da

Understanding Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder causing fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys. These cysts can grow and multiply, affecting kidney function over time. PKD is the most common inherited kidney disease, with two predominant forms: Autosomal Dominant PKD (ADPKD) and Autosomal Recessive PKD (ARPKD). ADPKD is more common and usually develops in adulthood, while ARPKD typically manifests in infancy or childho

Leg swelling, also known as edema, is a common concern for individuals with CKD, and we're here to provide clear and concise answers to your pressing questions. Whether you're experiencing leg swelling yourself, caring for someone with CKD, or simply seeking information on this topic, our Q&A format will guide you through the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for leg swelling in CKD. Let's dive in! Q: Can kidney problems cause leg swelling? A: Yes, kidney problems c

Hypertension, ‘the silent killer’, casts a long shadow over Jamaica's health landscape. As the primary culprit behind chronic kidney disease and the second-leading cause of morbidity after diabetes, it warrants a closer look. Diagnosing hypertension goes beyond mere blood pressure readings; it's a multifaceted puzzle influenced by genetics, lifestyle choices, and underlying health conditions. While stress may temporarily elevate blood pressure, it's not the sole culprit. Othe

In Jamaica, chronic kidney disease often develops quietly. A person may continue working, caring for family and participating in everyday life while kidney function gradually declines in the background. By the time the disease becomes advanced or dialysis becomes necessary, the experience may affect almost every part of life. Kidney disease is often discussed in terms of laboratory results: creatinine, potassium, haemoglobin, fluid balance and dialysis adequacy. These measure

Kidney stones can wreak havoc on our bodies with their sharp edges and stubbornness to move. In Jamaica, where kidney stone prevalence is...

When it comes to discussing kidney disease, certain topics may be overlooked or surrounded by myths. One such area is sexual health. In many Jamaican and Caribbean cultures, there is a stigma or taboo surrounding discussions about sexual health and intimacy, particularly within the context of chronic illnesses like kidney disease. As a result, individuals may feel uncomfortable or ashamed to seek help or discuss concerns with their partners or healthcare providers. Many indiv

Living with kidney disease in Jamaica presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining a balanced diet. The renal diet is a specialized eating plan designed to help manage the symptoms and complications of kidney disease. It typically focuses on controlling intake of certain nutrients to reduce stress on the kidneys. Whether you're in the early stages of kidney disease or undergoing dialysis, adhering to the renal diet can help manage symptoms and slow dise

As we delve into the topic of dialysis, it's important to understand its purpose and implications for those undergoing this treatment....

Are you curious about your kidney health? Here, I will address some commonly asked questions in Jamaica regarding kidney disease and...