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What happens when kidneys stop working? Some parts of our bodies do not work.  These parts might just need some help.  For example, do you know someone who wears glasses or contact lenses to see better?  Or do you know someone who wears a hearing aid?  Or someone who needs a...

How diabetes affects your whole body When diabetes is not well controlled, the sugar level in your blood goes too high. This is called hyperglycemia. High blood sugar can cause damage to many parts of your body, especially: kidneys heart blood vessels eyes feet nerves Diabetes is the leading...

What is an ectopic kidney? An ectopic kidney is a kidney that is out of place.  An ectopic kidney is caused by a birth defect. What causes an ectopic kidney? An ectopic kidney happens while a baby is growing in the womb.  Normally, the kidneys form a kidney bud within the pelvis (hip...

People with simple kidney cysts have sacs that are filled with fluid within their kidneys. It is possible to have one or more cysts in one or both kidneys. The exact cause of simple kidney cysts is not known but they tend to be more common as people age. Simple kidney cysts rarely cause problems...

Many people feel that a successful kidney transplant offers a better quality of life than dialysis.  To be considered for one, you must be evaluated at a transplant center. This is done to make sure that a kidney transplant is the best choice for you.  The evaluation will be very...

Medullary sponge kidney (MSK) is a congenital disorder, meaning it is present at birth. MSK occurs when small cysts (sacs) form either on tiny tubes within the kidney (known as tubules) or the collecting ducts (a channel where urine is collected for removal). These cysts can reduce the outward flow...

Can people with kidney disease or kidney failure still enjoy sex? It's important to remember that people with kidney failure can have healthy marriages and meaningful relationships. They can fall in love, care for families, and be sexual. Staying intimate with those you love is important. It's...

When a family member develops kidney failure, the whole family is affected, even if they don't all show it. Everyone has questions about how kidney failure will affect their own and the patient's life and future plans. If a parent develops kidney failure, children have questions too. Some children...

For many patients who are on dialysis or have had a kidney transplant, the ability to travel is important to their self-esteem and lifestyle. Working patients may need to attend business meetings or conferences. Older patients may have dreamed of traveling during their retirement. A family event...

Many people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure work full time or part time. Some go to school or take care of their homes and families. Others do volunteer work, have hobbies, or have regular exercise routines. If you have kidney disease or kidney failure, you may have questions...

Until recently, a transplant patient could only receive an organ from someone with a compatible blood type. An organ from someone with an incompatible blood type would be perceived as foreign and vulnerable to attack by the recipient's natural antibodies. Now, through a process called...

Schedule regular healthcare visits Take all your medications every day and at the same time as instructed Discuss any medication concerns or side effects with your transplant team Eat healthy Get regular exercise Keep a healthy weight Ask how you can lower your chances for high blood pressure,...

What is carbohydrate counting? Carbohydrate counting is a way for you to keep track of the amount of sugar, known as carbohydrates, that you eat. If you have diabetes, it is important to learn about carbohydrates found in food. Keeping track of your carbohydrate intake will help you control your...

Are you getting enough vitamins and minerals for your health?  If you have chronic kidney disease or kidney failure, here’s what you need to know.