Here are my notes from my former website wizardofeyez.com. The IBIS software I collaborated on is now available for free, though the website seems to be down recently…
Structures of the kidney: 1.Renal pyramid 2.Interlobar artery 3.Renal artery 4.Renal vein 5.Renal hilum 6.Renal pelvis 7.Ureter 8.Minor calyx 9.Renal capsule 10.Inferior renal capsule 11.Superior renal capsule 12.Interlobar vein 13.Nephron 14.Minor calyx 15.Major calyx 16.Renal papilla 17.Renal column (no distinction for red/blue (oxygenated or not) blood, arteriole is between capillaries and larger vessels (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The following summary was compiled by Dr. Glen Swartwout using the IBIS database of alternative medicine research. The program is available to licensed or certified health practitioners. Research summaries on specific topics may be requested with a donation to the Remission Foundation. For individualized recommendations, ask for a Biofield Analysis.
A disorder of the kidneys resulting from many pathologic conditions that cause abnormal and insufficient functioning and excretion of the kidneys.
There are 3 stages of chronic kidney failure (CKF): decreased renal reserve, renal failure, and uremia. The most common cause for CKF is glomerulonephritis, but other frequently seen precipitating factors are diabetes mellitus, polycystic kidney disease, hypertension, nephrosclerosis, as well as assorted other reasons. The glomerular filtration rate must be significantly reduced before symptoms of CKF appear.
In the early stages of CKF, when the GFR is only 35-50% of normal, the patient is totally asymptomatic, and due to renal functional adaptation, the renal indices are well maintained.
When the GFR reaches 20-35% of normal azotemia will begin, and although patients are still usually pretty symptom-free, the renal reserve is compromised to the point that any additional stress (infection, dehydration) can usher in overt failure.
Overt CKF: with the systemic manifestations of uremia: is typically seen when the GFR decreases to below 20-25% of normal (GFR < 6 ml/min./sq. m).
Patients may be asymptomatic or may experience only mild and vague symptoms even when the BUN and creatinine are elevated. Nocturia. Fatigue. Lethargy. Diminished mental sharpness. Neuromuscular presentations: muscle twitching/cramps, convulsions. GI presentations: anorexia, vomiting, stomatitis, offensive taste in the mouth. GI ulcers and bleeding: in advanced stages. Malnutrition with muscle wasting: in advanced disease. Skin: may become yellow-brown, itching may be severe, may develop a “uremic frost” (urea from the sweat crystallizing on the skin). Hypertension. Many other signs and symptoms ranging from sexual dysfunction, to headache, to ecchymoses, to hepatitis, etc.
Prognosis depends on the cause and severity of the primary disease and existing complications. Close attention to diet and protein/potassium/ liquid intake, dialysis, or transplantation are the conventional treatments.
[*The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.] T.D.C.