That's a really fair question — and honestly, a frustrating one! High blood pressure and diabetes are two of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease, but they're definitely not the only ones.
There are several other reasons kidneys can decline in function, including:
- Glomerular disease — damage to the tiny filters Show Full Answer
That's a really fair question — and honestly, a frustrating one! High blood pressure and diabetes are two of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease, but they're definitely not the only ones.
There are several other reasons kidneys can decline in function, including:
- Glomerular disease — damage to the tiny filters in your kidneys (the glomeruli), which can happen due to immune system issues
- Genetic conditions — such as polycystic kidney disease
- Rare kidney diseases — like IgA nephropathy or other forms of glomerulonephritis
- Repeated infections or blockages over time
- Unknown or hard-to-identify causes — sometimes it takes deeper investigation to find the root cause The important thing is that your healthcare team identifies *your* specific cause, because treatment can vary quite a bit depending on what's driving the kidney damage.
It's worth asking your nephrologist directly: "What is causing my kidney disease?" and "Are there specific tests that could help identify the cause?" You deserve a clear answer on that.
AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to
diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.
Can You Reverse Kidney Disease?
September 15
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