Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around a person who has had an ileostomy for 45 years and is now experiencing kidney issues, specifically a drop in eGFR and a rise in creatinine levels. The individual is seeking to understand if these kidney problems are common among long-term ileostomy patients, possibly due to electrolyte imbalances.
Advice and Helpful Insights:
1. Consultation with Specialists:
- It is advised to consult a nephrologist to address and manage kidney issues effectively.
- Seeing a urologist might also be beneficial to get a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.
2. Hydration and Electrolyte Management:
- Maintaining proper hydration is crucial. It's not only about drinking water but also ensuring adequate intake of fluids that can help with electrolyte balance.
- Sports drinks with low sugar and no artificial sweeteners, which contain essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, are recommended to prevent dehydration and support kidney function.
3. Medical Interventions:
- Some patients have reported improvement in kidney function through regular IV infusions which help in stabilizing the kidney metrics.
- Medications like Sodium Bicarbonate might be prescribed to reduce acidity and toxins in the kidneys, helping to prevent further damage or slow down the progression of kidney disease.
4. Awareness and Monitoring:
- Long-term ileostomy can lead to kidney problems, and it's not uncommon for patients who have had an ileostomy for over 40 years to require dialysis.
- Regular health checks and monitoring of kidney function are essential to catch any deterioration early and manage it promptly.
5. Personal Experiences and Anecdotes:
- Several individuals with long-term ileostomies have shared their experiences with kidney issues, indicating that this could be a more common occurrence than initially thought.
- Some have managed to improve their kidney function through targeted interventions and lifestyle adjustments, particularly focusing on fluid and electrolyte intake.
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