MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

White nails (leukonychia) can occur at various stages of kidney disease and is particularly common in people who have received kidney transplants. The appearance of white nails isn't necessarily tied to a specific stage of kidney disease.

One specific type of white nail change called Muehrcke's lines appears as horizontal pairs of white lines across the nail, parallel to the half-moon shape at the base of the nail (lunula). It's important to note that nail changes may take time to develop. Some people with kidney disease may not notice changes right away, and it could be several years before visible nail changes occur. If you notice changes in your nails, it's best to discuss them with your healthcare provider as they could be related to various aspects of kidney disease including anemia, calcium regulation issues, or nutritional factors.

MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progresses through 5 stages, measured by your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine tests. Here's a breakdown:

Stage 1: Normal eGFR (90+) with signs of kidney damage
Stage 2: eGFR 60-89, minimal symptoms
Stage 3a: eGFR 45-59, noticeable symptoms begin
Stage 3b: eGFR 30-44, moderate to severe damage
Stage 4: eGFR 15-29, severe damage
Stage 5: eGFR below 15, kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant Your current lifestyle choices could impact kidney health. Making positive changes now is important. Consider these steps:

- Reduce processed foods and sugary drinks
- Increase water intake
- Add fruits and vegetables to your diet
- Start gentle exercise
- Regular medical check-ups
- Monitor UTI symptoms

Early detection is key - schedule a kidney function test with your healthcare provider to check your eGFR and urine protein levels, especially given your UTI history.

MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

When living with kidney disease, it's important to be mindful of protein intake since eating more protein than your body needs can increase kidney dysfunction. It's recommended to cut back on high-fat meats and focus instead on leaner options.

Some kidney-friendly protein options include:
- Fresh fish (avoiding raw fish if you have end-stage renal disease)
- Lean cuts of meat in moderation
- Plant-based proteins like beans and nuts (in controlled portions) Important tips:
- Avoid processed meats like pepperoni, ham, sausages, and hot dogs as they're high in sodium
- Limit deli meats due to high phosphorus content
- Work with a registered dietitian nutritionist to determine the right amount of protein for your specific situation

MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

While the search results don't specifically mention avocados, it's important to note that people with kidney disease need to be mindful of potassium intake. Since avocados are high in potassium, you should consult with your kidney specialist or dietitian about whether they can fit into your personal meal plan.

Some lower-potassium alternatives for healthy fats include:
- Cauliflower
- Eggplant
- Radishes
- Cabbage (boiled with water discarded if on potassium restriction) Remember that dietary needs can vary significantly between individuals with kidney disease. What works for one person may not work for another. Your healthcare team can provide personalized guidance based on your specific kidney function and lab values.

MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

No, IgA Nephropathy and Lupus Nephritis are not the same condition. IgA Nephropathy (also called Berger's disease) is specifically caused by IgA antibodies forming clumps in the kidneys' filtering units (glomeruli). These antibodies are meant to fight bacteria and viruses but become abnormal in IgAN patients. In IgA Nephropathy, the immune system specifically has trouble with IgA antibodies, which build up in the kidneys and cause inflammation. The condition occurs when these antibodies get stuck in the kidney's filters, leading to inflammation and potential kidney damage over time.

MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

Yes, canned fruit, including pineapple, is perfectly fine to eat with kidney disease as long as you drain the liquid first. Canned fruits are actually lower in potassium compared to their fresh counterparts, making them a suitable option for your diet. Before making any changes to your diet, it's important to discuss portion sizes and specific fruit recommendations with your healthcare provider, as individual dietary needs can vary based on your kidney function.

MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

When dealing with diarrhea while having kidney disease, it's important to be careful with rehydration. While staying hydrated is crucial, you need to be mindful of fluid, sodium, and potassium restrictions. Consult your nephrologist before using typical rehydration drinks like sports drinks or fruit juices.

For food choices, stick to easily digestible options while avoiding greasy or fatty foods. While the BRAT diet is commonly recommended, bananas should be avoided due to high potassium content. Some kidney-friendly food options include:

- Low-potassium vegetables: iceberg lettuce, cabbage, cucumbers, onions, bell peppers
- Low-potassium fruits: apples, berries, pears
- Cauliflower (good source of vitamin C and fiber)
- White rice
- Toast (non-whole wheat)

Remember to avoid high-sodium foods, excessive protein, and high-phosphorus foods like dairy products and deli meats. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice as recommendations can vary based on your specific condition.