FAQs - Chronic kidney disease and anemia
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A. Normally, when the kidneys sense a decrease in red blood cells, they release a hormone called erythropoietin (e-RITH-ro-poi-e-tin). Erythropoietin causes your bone marrow to make more red blood cells. These cells then carry oxygen throughout the body.
People with CKD can get anemia if their kidneys do not make enough erythropoietin.
A. PROCRIT® is a man-made form of erythropoietin, the hormone that causes your bone marrow to make more red blood cells. PROCRIT® is used to treat anemia and reduce the need for blood transfusions.
A blood transfusion is a procedure in which blood from a donor is given to you through an intravenous (IV) line. Your healthcare provider will let you know if you need a transfusion. PROCRIT® is a type of drug called an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA). ESAs, such as PROCRIT®, help the bone marrow make more red blood cells. ESAs are not the only way to treat anemia. Other treatments your healthcare provider may prescribe include iron, vitamin B12, and, if necessary, the blood transfusions mentioned above.
A. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of CKD. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to high blood sugar levels. These high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is another major risk factor for kidney disease. Over time, pressure on the walls of your blood vessels can damage the kidneys. Damaged kidneys can result in extra fluid in the blood vessels, which may raise blood pressure even more.
Most people don’t know they have kidney disease until it is advanced.
