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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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CRF - Chronic Renal Failure

Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment of CRF includes the following actions:

controlling fluids using diuretics, called water pills, such as furosemide

controlling high blood pressure using medicines that treat the underlying causes

eating a protein-, potassium-, and phosphorus-restricted diet

hemodialysis, a process in which a machine filters wastes or impurities from the blood

limiting fluids

kidney transplantation, where a healthy kidney from another person is used to replace a diseased kidney

peritoneal dialysis, a filtering procedure that corrects the balance of electrolytes in the blood

using bicarbonate to improve acid-base status

using erythropoietin injections to improve anemia

using phosphate binders, such as calcium carbonate, to decrease absorption of phosphate

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Most cases of CRF progress to end-stage renal disease. Most people who have this condition will eventually need dialysis or a kidney transplant to treat the symptoms of end-stage renal disease.

How is the disease monitored?

A doctor will usually monitor a person for symptoms of complete kidney failure. Once these symptoms appear, dialysis is a next step. The doctor may also keep a watch on kidney function with repeated blood samples and 24-hour urine collection. Be sure to report any new or worsening symptoms to the doctor.

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