Why does kidney shrinking

Normally, kidneys are about the size of a fist or 10 to 12 cm about 5 inches. Kidney atrophy means that the kidney is smaller than normal. This can happen for two basic reasons.

The first is that part of the kidney does not develop from birth called a congenital problem making a small kidney. This type of kidney atrophy or small kidney usually does not need any special treatment. The second type happens after birth, which can occur in one or both kidneys. Chronic infections or blockage of the kidney can also result in kidney atrophy.

A kidney that is smaller in size can lead to kidney disease. In peritoneal dialysis, a fluid called dialysate is used to fill your abdomen to filter waste in your body through a peritoneal dialysis catheter. Dialysis helps do the work your kidneys can no longer do. You can receive a healthy kidney from a living or a deceased donor. The wait for a suitable kidney can take years, though.

But diet plays a vital role in treatment of kidney disease. Here are some kidney-healthy dietary tips:. This will help control your blood pressure. Here are some pointers for reducing sodium:. The more protein you eat, the harder your kidneys have to work.

But you do need some protein. You can get it from animal products such as:. Portion size matters, too. A portion of chicken, fish, or meat is 2 to 3 ounces. A portion of yogurt or milk is half a cup. One slice of cheese is a portion. You can also get protein from beans, grains, and nuts. A portion of cooked beans, rice, or noodles is half a cup. A portion of nuts is a quarter of a cup.

One slice of bread is a portion. Heart-healthy foods help keep fat from accumulating in your heart, blood vessels, and kidneys. Incorporate the following tips for a more heart-healthy diet:. If kidney function continues to decline, your doctor will make personalized dietary recommendations. Kidney disease can cause phosphorus to build up in your blood, so you might be advised to choose foods that are lower in phosphorus. These include:. Phosphorus may be added to packaged food and deli meats, as well as fresh meat and poultry, so be sure to read labels.

You can live a long, healthy life with only one healthy kidney. In some cases, chronic kidney disease leads to kidney failure. Many people with CKD are able to live long lives with the condition. Get advice about coronavirus and kidney disease from Kidney Care UK. There are usually no symptoms of kidney disease in the early stages.

It may only be diagnosed if you have a blood or urine test for another reason and the results show a possible problem with your kidneys. See a GP if you have persistent or worrying symptoms that you think could be caused by kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease is usually caused by other conditions that put a strain on the kidneys. Often it's the result of a combination of different problems. You can help prevent CKD by making healthy lifestyle changes and ensuring any underlying conditions you have are well controlled. CKD can be diagnosed using blood and urine tests.