MyKidneyDiseaseCenter

How can chronic infections affect kidney health?

Chronic infections can weaken the immune system in people with kidney disease, making them more susceptible to complications. Several factors contribute to this increased vulnerability:

• Age (particularly in those over 75)
• Use of immunosuppressive medications
• Malnutrition
• Dialysis treatments When the immune system is compromised, it can lead to inflammation that damages the kidneys' filtering units (glomeruli). This inflammation can cause:

• Reduced urine output
• Fluid retention and swelling
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Breathing difficulties

Early recognition and management of infections is crucial to prevent further kidney damage.