The Covid-19 epidemic brought the world to its knees amid global preparations for a highly contagious and relatively deadly disease. As doctors, scientists and virologists continue to address many aspects of coronavirus disease (SARS-CoV), various mutations and types continue to emerge, putting pressure on the world’s progress. As the days go by there are indications that there may be more to learn about the virus and how it interacts with the kidneys.Also read – Covid-19 mental health issues in marginalized children: report
In patients with Covid-19 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, cerebrovascular accidents, hypertension, etc., comorbidities show an increase in mortality or severity. However, it also needs to be explored whether COVID-19 complications can increase comorbidities such as kidney failure. The available evidence indicates that there is an attachment. Also read – The fourth wave of Kovid? The Karnataka government will tighten the rules amid rising cases. Deets inside
COVID-19 can cause serious damage to organs such as the kidneys, affecting a person’s function even after recovery. In fact, some people with severe COVID-19 complications may show signs of serious kidney damage. These include people with problems with the kidneys, and these signs are often manifested in high levels of blood or protein in the urine, as well as abnormal blood function. The results of several studies cited in a report by Johns Hopkins Medicine show that at least 30 percent of hospitalized patients with Covid-19 develop some form of kidney injury. Also read – Focus on testing, tracking, treatment: Center writes to states to take action amid boom in Kovid cases
COVID-19 complications and effect on the kidneys
One of the main complications of Covid-19 that can increase the chances of kidney failure is a decrease in oxygen. Severe cases of COVID-19 disease usually lead to pneumonia which can lead to low levels of oxygen in the patient’s blood. These abnormal oxygen levels can lead to kidney problems or exacerbate existing kidney problems that can lead to failure if not managed properly. This condition, known as hypoxemia, is associated with difficulty breathing or circulation, which is a major symptom of COVID-19.
Another major complication of concern is the nature of the receptors in kidney cells that allow Covid-19 to attach to them. COVID-19 targets these cells and enables duplication of these cells that could potentially harm them. These receptors can be simple targets for new coronaviruses similar to those found in lung and heart cells that can damage the renal leading to kidney failure. This phenomenon clearly describes the nature of COVID-19 attacking vital cells and further impairing the effectiveness of the kidneys.
There are other ways coronavirus disease can affect the kidneys and it can lead to failed function. One of them is the body’s immune response to a virus that can lead to cytokine surges. This rush of cytokines, a group of small proteins, is the mechanism of communication of cells as the body’s immune system fights infection.
However, a sudden influx of cytokines can lead to inflammation that can destroy healthy kidney tissue. Another concern for us is the blood clots that can cause covid-19 in the bloodstream and further block small blood vessels in a person’s kidneys.
The effect of COVID-19 on the kidneys can be really devastating as an attack on kidney function can affect the function of other vital organs such as the heart and lungs. This can be fatal in certain circumstances, especially for those in need of dialysis, according to one study.
It is therefore important for patients with covid-19-induced kidney injury to always follow up with their healthcare provider to ensure the kidney is returning to normal. While dialysis can help, even after recovering from Covid-19, the best remedy is to follow preventive instructions, including vaccination and booster, hand washing, body spacing, and masking, among other measures.
(Author by Dr. Saurabh Pokhriyal, Co-Founder, Witscare Dialysis Center)
