Navigating Kidney Disease: Expert Tips for Better Management

Summary

Navigating Kidney Disease: Expert Tips for Better Management
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition marked by the gradual decline of kidney function, affecting millions worldwide and often leading to serious health complications such as cardiovascular disease, anemia, and bone disorders. Early stages of CKD frequently present no symptoms, making timely diagnosis and intervention crucial to slowing progression and improving patient outcomes. With effective management strategies—including lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, pharmacological treatments, and close monitoring—many individuals can maintain quality of life and avoid kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation.
Management of CKD is complex and highly individualized, involving multidisciplinary healthcare teams composed of nephrologists, dietitians, pharmacists, and mental health professionals. Key components of care include controlling blood pressure and diabetes, optimizing nutrition (especially protein, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake), and addressing complications early. Recent therapeutic advances, notably the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, have shown promise in slowing kidney disease progression and reducing cardiovascular risks, even in patients without diabetes. Patient education and engagement are emphasized to empower individuals in self-management and improve adherence to treatment plans.
Despite these advances, challenges remain in managing CKD effectively. The asymptomatic nature of early disease often leads to delayed diagnosis, and patients may struggle with complex medication regimens, dietary restrictions, and the psychological burden of chronic illness. Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used for pain can exacerbate kidney damage if not carefully managed. Socioeconomic barriers and variability in access to multidisciplinary care further complicate disease management, underscoring the need for comprehensive support systems including peer mentorship, mental health resources, and financial assistance programs.
This article provides expert tips for navigating kidney disease through evidence-based approaches, highlighting the importance of early detection, individualized dietary and pharmacological management, lifestyle modifications, and coordinated care. It also addresses common patient challenges and the role of support networks in fostering coping and empowerment. By integrating these strategies, patients and healthcare providers can work collaboratively to improve outcomes and quality of life for those affected by CKD.

Overview of Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time, leading to the kidneys’ reduced ability to filter waste products from the blood. CKD can progress to kidney failure, which requires treatments such as dialysis or kidney transplantation to sustain life. However, most people with CKD do not progress to kidney failure or death if they actively manage their condition with healthcare providers.
The disease often develops silently, with early stages presenting no noticeable symptoms. Symptoms typically become more apparent as kidney function deteriorates and may include swelling, confusion, frequent urination, and feelings of sickness. CKD patients also face an increased risk of developing various complications, such as cardiovascular disease (heart disease and stroke), anemia, gout, secondary hyperparathyroidism, bone disease, and fluid buildup. Indeed, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among individuals with CKD.
Diagnosis and staging of CKD involve estimating the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and assessing markers of kidney damage, such as the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). These measurements help determine disease progression and guide treatment decisions. Management strategies emphasize slowing disease progression, controlling symptoms, and preventing complications.
CKD management requires individualized care, as the disease course and patient needs vary widely. Healthcare professionals must evaluate treatment appropriateness based on each patient’s unique situation and available resources. Supportive care also addresses patients’ psychological challenges, such as anxiety and depression related to disease prognosis and treatment concerns.

Importance of Early Detection and Risk Stratification

Early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) plays a crucial role in preventing progression and managing associated complications effectively. Approximately one in every three people in the United States is at risk for kidney disease, making regular testing and monitoring essential, especially for individuals with high-risk factors such as hypertension. Identifying CKD at an early stage allows for timely interventions that can slow disease progression and reduce the incidence of severe outcomes.
Risk stratification is vital to tailor management approaches according to disease severity and patient-specific risks. As CKD worsens, patients face an increased likelihood of complications, particularly cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of morbidity and mortality in this population. Therefore, stratifying patients based on their risk profiles facilitates more focused surveillance and therapeutic strategies.
For patients presenting with acute or unstable coronary disease alongside CKD, an invasive management strategy may be preferred, particularly in cases involving unacceptable angina, left ventricular systolic dysfunction related to ischemia, or left main coronary artery disease. Furthermore, established guidelines for the diagnosis and management of comorbid conditions such as atrial fibrillation should be adhered to in patients with CKD to optimize overall outcomes.

Dietary Management of Kidney Disease

Proper dietary management is a crucial component in the care of individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to help maintain overall health, slow disease progression, and manage symptoms. Nutritional needs may vary depending on the stage of CKD, kidney function, and whether the patient is undergoing dialysis or has received a kidney transplant.

Protein Intake

Protein management plays a significant role in CKD dietary guidelines. Consuming excessive protein, particularly from unnecessary supplements, can place additional stress on the kidneys. Conversely, too little protein intake may lead to muscle wasting, weakness, and increased acid load in the body. Therefore, it is important to consume the right amount of protein tailored to individual needs, which is typically determined by a healthcare provider or dietitian.
Current clinical guidelines recommend a low-protein diet (LPD) containing approximately 0.55–0.60 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day for adults with stages 3–5 CKD who are metabolically stable. Very low protein intake, defined as 0.28–0.43 g/kg, may be used under close supervision and sometimes supplemented with keto acid analogs to reduce the risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and improve quality of life. It is noteworthy that the general recommended daily allowance for protein in the U.S. is 0.8 g/kg/day, and some guidelines, such as those from the UK Kidney Association, suggest normal protein intake for patients with advanced CKD stages.
Plant-based proteins, which include beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, can meet protein needs if carefully planned, though they may lack one or more essential amino acids. Animal proteins provide all essential amino acids but vary in fat content, with certain sources high in saturated fat, which may negatively affect cardiovascular health.

Potassium and Phosphorus Management

Managing mineral intake, particularly potassium and phosphorus, is important in CKD dietary plans. High potassium foods like bananas and broccoli may need to be limited in some patients, especially those not on dialysis. Phosphorus levels should also be monitored closely, as elevated phosphorus can contribute to bone disease. Phosphate binders may be prescribed to control serum phosphorus levels as kidney function declines.

Sodium Restriction

Reducing dietary sodium intake is fundamental to controlling hypertension, proteinuria, and fluid balance in CKD. High sodium intake is common among CKD patients and is associated with poorer cardiovascular and kidney outcomes. A low sodium diet (LSD), often limiting salt intake to less than 6 grams per day, is widely recommended to improve blood pressure control and reduce kidney stress.

Individualized Dietary Counseling

Because CKD patients have diverse nutritional needs and may face challenges related to cultural dietary habits, individualized dietary counseling by registered dietitians is essential. Such counseling helps patients achieve balanced nutrient intake, manage disease-related complications, and maintain quality of life without undue restriction.

Pharmacological Management

Pharmacological management in chronic kidney disease (CKD) focuses on controlling underlying conditions, slowing disease progression, and preventing complications. A range of medications are employed based on the individual’s CKD stage, comorbidities, and risk factors.

Blood Pressure Control

Controlling blood pressure is crucial for CKD patients. Generally, the target blood pressure is below 140/90 mmHg, with a stricter goal of below 130/80 mmHg for those who also have diabetes. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are often the first-line agents used because they help lower blood pressure and protect kidney function from further damage. However, these medications require careful monitoring due to potential side effects such as hyperkalemia, especially in combination with other drugs.

Diabetes Management

Diabetes medications often need adjustment as CKD progresses since impaired kidney function can prolong drug clearance, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. For example, glyburide is contraindicated when estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) falls below 60 mL/min/1.73m². Newer classes of drugs like sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have demonstrated benefits beyond glucose control by slowing CKD progression and reducing cardiovascular risk. Some SGLT2 inhibitors are approved even for CKD patients without type 2 diabetes. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are another class that aids blood sugar management and may protect kidney function in diabetic CKD patients.

Pain Management Considerations

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should generally be avoided or used cautiously in CKD patients due to their potential to reduce renal blood flow, exacerbate hypertension, and worsen kidney damage, especially at high doses or with long-term use. Alternative pain management strategies are preferred to minimize further renal harm.

Additional Medications

Other pharmacologic agents commonly prescribed include erythropoietin to treat anemia associated with CKD, vitamin D and calcitriol to manage bone mineral disorders, and phosphorus binders when dietary measures are insufficient to control mineral balance. Lipid-lowering therapies may also be used to address cardiovascular risk factors in this population.

Cardiovascular Disease and Acute Management

For CKD patients with acute or unstable coronary disease, invasive strategies may be preferred depending on the severity of angina, left ventricular dysfunction, or left main coronary artery disease. Established treatment protocols for atrial fibrillation should also be followed, considering the complex interplay between CKD and cardiovascular conditions.

Non-Pharmacological Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to medication, adopting certain lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in slowing the progression of kidney disease and improving overall health. Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes, modifying dietary habits, and increasing physical activity are foundational strategies recommended by healthcare providers.

Dietary Adjustments

Nutrition is a key component in kidney disease management. A kidney-friendly eating plan tailored to an individual’s stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD) can help slow kidney damage and maintain health. There is no single diet suitable for all patients, as nutritional needs vary with kidney function and other factors. Generally, a balanced diet providing appropriate amounts of protein, calories, vitamins, and minerals is advised. Emphasis is placed on reducing net acid production through increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, which may help slow the decline of residual kidney function in CKD stages 1 to 4.
Fat intake should be carefully managed, prioritizing healthy unsaturated fats while limiting saturated and trans fats to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, to which people with CKD are particularly susceptible. Consultation with a dietitian and physician is essential to personalize nutrient intake according to disease stage and individual needs.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise benefits both kidney and overall physical function. Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of low-intensity exercise on most days of the week, especially for individuals with CKD who also have high blood pressure. When achieving this goal is challenging, increasing daily physical activity through simple habits—such as walking instead of driving or taking stairs instead of elevators—is encouraged. It is important for patients to discuss any exercise plans with their doctors before beginning.

Tobacco and Substance Use

Avoiding tobacco is critical, as smoking contributes not only to kidney damage but also to serious health issues such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Quitting tobacco use can substantially improve kidney health and overall well-being at any stage of the disease. Healthcare providers can offer support and resources to assist in cessation efforts. Additionally, misuse of substances such as drugs or alcohol can be particularly harmful for individuals managing kidney disease and should be avoided.

Patient Monitoring and Follow-Up

Effective patient monitoring and follow-up are critical components in the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD), enabling timely adjustments in care tailored to individual patient needs. The KDIGO 2024 Clinical Practice Guideline emphasizes the importance of integrating multidisciplinary teamwork and patient engagement into the monitoring process to enhance coordination and outcomes. Clinicians are encouraged to apply the guidelines flexibly, considering each patient’s unique clinical situation, available resources, and institutional limitations.
Regular assessment typically involves the use of standardized diagnostic tools, such as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), to evaluate kidney function and stage CKD accurately. Additional markers of kidney damage may also be utilized to provide a comprehensive evaluation. The guidelines recommend employing validated patient-reported outcome measures to monitor symptoms and quality of life, facilitating more patient-centered care.
Active patient involvement is a cornerstone of effective follow-up. Educating patients and caregivers about CKD’s natural history and potential complications fosters greater knowledge, ability, and willingness to participate in health management. Reinforcement through ongoing communication and supportive interventions promotes adherence to treatment plans and positive health behaviors, which have been shown to improve outcomes and potentially reduce healthcare costs. Overall, patient monitoring and follow-up under these guidelines aim to deliver a holistic, evidence-based approach that supports individualized care and continuous improvement in CKD management.

Management of Advanced Kidney Disease

Management of advanced kidney disease involves a multifaceted approach aimed at slowing disease progression, addressing complications, and maintaining quality of life. One of the primary goals is controlling blood pressure, as hypertension can further damage kidney function. Healthcare providers typically recommend maintaining blood pressure at or below individualized target levels to protect kidney health.
Pharmacologic treatments are tailored to the underlying cause and severity of kidney disease. Commonly prescribed medications include angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), which help lower blood pressure and reduce kidney damage. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors have also been utilized to slow disease progression. Specific therapies may be indicated for conditions such as glomerulonephritis or lupus nephritis.
When kidney function declines to the point of kidney failure, renal replacement therapies become necessary. Dialysis, which includes hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, serves as an artificial method to remove waste and excess fluids from the body. Patients are encouraged to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each dialysis type with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate option. Alternatively, kidney transplantation offers the most effective treatment for end-stage kidney disease, although it requires major surgery and lifelong immunosuppressive medications to prevent organ rejection. Donor kidneys may come from living or deceased donors, with living donations generally resulting in shorter wait times. All donors undergo rigorous screening to ensure compatibility and safety.
Beyond medical interventions, patient engagement is critical in managing advanced kidney disease. Active participation in treatment decisions and adherence to lifestyle modifications contribute to better outcomes and allow individuals to maintain productive personal and professional lives despite their condition.

Common Complications of Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often accompanied by a range of complications that can significantly affect a patient’s health and quality of life. These complications tend to increase in prevalence and severity as CKD progresses, particularly in stages 3 through 5.
One of the most frequent complications of CKD is anemia. It occurs because damaged kidneys produce less erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. Anemia may begin

Challenges in Daily Management of Kidney Disease

Managing kidney disease, particularly chronic kidney disease (CKD), presents a range of challenges that extend beyond medical treatment to include lifestyle, emotional, and social factors. Effective management often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving nephrologists, pharmacists, dietitians, care managers, and the support of family and friends, reflecting the complexity of the condition and the individualized care needed for each patient.
One of the primary challenges is the asymptomatic nature of early-stage CKD, which can delay diagnosis and complicate timely intervention. Many patients remain unaware of their condition until the disease has progressed to more advanced stages or complications arise. This delayed awareness underscores the importance of regular monitoring and communication between patients and healthcare providers to guide treatment decisions appropriately.
Medication management also poses significant difficulties. Certain commonly used drugs, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can exacerbate kidney damage by reducing blood flow to the kidneys and increasing blood pressure. Patients must be vigilant about avoiding such medications and adhere strictly to prescribed treatments that may include agents proven to reduce mortality and cardiovascular complications associated with CKD.
Nutritional management is another critical aspect, as maintaining an individualized and balanced diet is essential to prevent protein-energy wasting and support overall health. This requires periodic counseling from dietitians to adjust dietary plans based on the progression of kidney function and other health factors. Adherence to dietary recommendations and ensuring adequate protein and energy intake remain challenging for many patients.
Beyond physical health, living with kidney disease significantly impacts mental and emotional well-being. Patients frequently face stress, anxiety, and emotional fluctuations that can affect their quality of life and ability to manage the disease. Recognizing these mental health challenges and accessing supportive resources are vital components of comprehensive care.

Support Systems and Resources for Patients

Managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) effectively often requires a comprehensive support system that includes multidisciplinary teamwork and patient engagement. Support networks play a crucial role in helping patients adjust to living with CKD by providing emotional support, shared experiences, and practical resources. These networks can include healthcare professionals, peer mentors, family members, and organized patient groups, all contributing to a holistic, evidence-based approach to care.

Multidisciplinary Care Teams

Effective CKD management frequently involves a diverse team of healthcare providers beyond the nephrologist. This team may include pharmacists who tailor medication dosing based on kidney function, dietitians who develop nutritional plans, care managers who coordinate services and resources, and social workers who address psychosocial needs. Such integrated care teams improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and alleviate stress on patients and their families by addressing the complex challenges of CKD comprehensively.

Peer Support and Patient Organizations

Peer support programs connect patients with trained mentors who have firsthand experience with dialysis, transplantation, or living kidney donation. These mentors provide a valuable resource for answering questions, sharing coping strategies, and offering emotional support, including guidance related to challenges posed by COVID-19. Organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) offer initiatives like NKF Peers and NKF Cares, which facilitate these connections and provide safe, supportive communities for patients and caregivers alike.
National kidney organizations also host educational events and webinars to foster patient engagement and knowledge sharing. For example, the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) offers HealthLine Innovators Webinars and annual national meetings that enable patients to access up-to-date information and support.

Mental Health and Financial Support

People with CKD or end-stage renal disease often face mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. Access to mental health services and social workers is critical for addressing these needs. Patients and their caregivers are encouraged to reach out for help early and consider joining support groups as a means to maintain mental well-being during their disease journey.
Financial assistance programs are also available to help patients manage the often high costs of treatment. Organizations like the American Kidney Fund (AKF) and the IgAN Foundation provide grants and other resources to ease financial burdens. Additionally, chronic disease case managers may assist in navigating these financial resources and managing long-term care.

Patient Education and Engagement

Patient education is a cornerstone of improved CKD outcomes. Educating patients about their disease, treatment options, and self-management strategies empowers them to take an active role in their care. Active patient involvement has been shown to improve health outcomes and reduce costs by promoting adherence to treatment plans and encouraging healthy behaviors. This approach aligns with international guidelines advocating for patient-centered care and highlights the importance of ongoing education to reinforce understanding of CKD’s natural history and complications.

Coping Strategies and Patient Empowerment

Effective management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) involves not only medical interventions but also active patient engagement and coping strategies that address emotional and psychological well-being. Patient empowerment, defined as a patient’s knowledge, ability, and willingness to manage their own health care, is essential for improving health outcomes and potentially reducing costs. This empowerment is fostered through education about CKD’s natural history, complications, and self-management techniques, supported by multidisciplinary teamwork and a holistic, evidence-based approach to care.
Mental health support is a critical component of coping with CKD. Patients and their care partners often face depression, anxiety, and stress related to the illness and its lifestyle impacts. Addressing these challenges early through consultation with social workers or joining support groups can provide crucial emotional assistance and reduce feelings of isolation. Adolescents with kidney disease, in particular, may benefit from learning tailored coping strategies to manage the unique difficulties they face.
Several practical methods can help patients manage stress and emotional difficulties. Techniques such as listening to calming music, meditation, and focusing on peaceful activities have been shown to reduce stress levels. Maintaining physical activity and adequate sleep also play important roles in stress reduction and overall well-being, both of which contribute to better disease management. Long-term stress, if unaddressed, may exacerbate conditions such as hypertension and depression, further complicating CKD management.
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the vulnerability of individuals with chronic illnesses, including CKD patients, who may experience increased anxiety due to their heightened risk of severe illness. Recognizing and addressing these fears through stress management resources and guidance from health authorities can help mitigate the psychological burden during such crises.

Advances and Innovations in Kidney Disease Treatment

Recent years have seen significant developments in the treatment and management of chronic kidney disease (CKD), guided by updated clinical practice guidelines such as the 2024 KDIGO recommendations. These advances emphasize a multidisciplinary approach and incorporate novel pharmacological therapies alongside traditional management strategies.
One of the cornerstone treatments to slow CKD progression remains stringent blood pressure control. Medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure and protect kidney function from further decline. Additionally, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors—originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar—have emerged as a crucial therapeutic class. Beyond glycemic control, SGLT2 inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in preventing progression of kidney disease and reducing cardiovascular complications, and some are FDA-approved for CKD and heart failure regardless of diabetic status.
Dietary management also remains a vital component of kidney care. Patients not on dialysis are often advised to follow a protein-restricted diet to reduce the workload on their kidneys, as excessive protein intake can accelerate kidney damage by increasing protein waste that must be filtered and eliminated.
The role of specialized healthcare professionals has expanded to optimize CKD management. Renal dietitians provide tailored nutritional guidance, while diabetes educators assist patients in managing coexisting diabetes, a major risk factor for CKD. Pharmacists contribute significantly by reviewing all medications—including over-the-counter drugs and supplements—to prevent harmful interactions and side effects, ensuring safe and effective treatment regimens.
For patients with advanced kidney failure, dialysis remains a life-sustaining option, with multiple modalities available. Decisions regarding dialysis type should be individualized through consultation with healthcare providers. Kidney transplantation offers an alternative that can restore kidney function more effectively than dialysis, though it involves major surgery and lifelong immunosuppressive therapy to prevent organ rejection.
Together, these advances reflect a comprehensive and evolving approach to CKD treatment, focusing on slowing disease progression, managing complications, and improving patient quality of life through multidisciplinary care and innovative therapies.

Role of Healthcare Professionals in Kidney Disease Management

Effective management of kidney disease often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals working collaboratively to optimize patient outcomes. Central to this team is the nephrologist, who specializes in kidney health and oversees the overall treatment plan. Complementing the nephrologist’s expertise, pharmacists play a critical role by ensuring medication regimens are appropriately dosed according to the patient’s level of kidney function, thereby minimizing risks associated with potentially harmful drugs in advanced kidney disease.
Dietitians are also integral members of the care team, providing specialized nutritional guidance tailored to the unique needs of individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). They assist patients in developing dietary plans that support kidney health and help manage complications related to the disease. Healthcare providers often refer patients to registered dietitians who have expertise in kidney diets, and support may be available to help cover the costs of nutrition counseling for those without insurance or Medicare.
In addition to physical health management, mental health services are important for patients with CKD or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), especially those undergoing dialysis. Depression and emotional challenges are common, and social workers or mental health professionals can provide essential support. Participation in support groups is also encouraged to help patients and their care partners cope with the psychological impacts of kidney disease.
Coordination and communication among the healthcare team are critical to prevent fragmentation of care, which can occur when multiple physicians manage a patient without adequate collaboration. Conflicting recommendations and the addition of unsafe medications by non-nephrology specialists highlight the need for a unified, evidence-based care plan developed through effective teamwork.
Patient-centered care and engagement are increasingly emphasized, with patient education serving as a vital tool for enabling self-management of CKD. Educating patients empowers them to better understand their condition, adhere to treatment plans, and actively participate in decision-making processes related to their health. Care managers may also assist by providing resources, coordinating services, and addressing challenges faced by patients and families, which can improve outcomes while reducing stress and healthcare costs.

Patient Resources and Educational Materials

Patient education is a critical component in the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD), playing a vital role in empowering individuals to engage in self-management and make informed decisions about their care. In the United States, there is an increasing emphasis on patient-centered care, where educational efforts are designed to address patients’ questions, concerns, and needs, thereby improving health outcomes. Despite recognized benefits and support from international guidelines, barriers remain that limit the widespread implementation of comprehensive education programs for people with progressive kidney disease.
Clinical practice guidelines serve as valuable resources by providing evidence-based recommendations on various aspects of CKD care, including evaluation, risk assessment, complication management, medication stewardship, and strategies for delivering patient-centered care across diverse clinical settings. These guidelines are developed through rigorous evidence reviews and consensus processes, aiming to support clinical decision-making without establishing rigid standards of care.
Support groups and national kidney organizations offer additional educational and emotional resources for patients and care partners. Groups such as the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) provide platforms including HealthLine services, webinars, and national meetings that facilitate information sharing, peer support, and coping strategies. Participation in such communities can be instrumental in helping individuals adjust to living with CKD and dialysis, while also addressing mental health needs.

The content is provided by Jordan Fields, Scopewires