From Heart to Kidneys to Metabolism
The heart, kidney and metabolism work hard to ensure the body receives adequate nutrients and eliminates waste effectively. These organs and systems are essential for overall health and well-being.
However, when these systems become imbalanced or dysregulated, it can give rise to a condition known as cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. So, what is CKM syndrome? Potentially unsurprisingly, CKM, heart disease, obesity and diabetes are all interconnected. In this article, we take a closer look at how, as well as CKM syndrome symptoms, treatments and more.
What is CKM?
CKM syndrome is an umbrella term that refers to issues with the three systems: your cardiovascular system, kidneys and metabolic system. Those with cardiovascular issues or heart disease are more likely to experience kidney disease, diabetes and obesity — and vice versa. For example, if you’re obese or overweight, this is considered one of the major risk factors for heart disease, diabetes and associated metabolic syndrome conditions.
Why does this matter? Heart failure is the leading cause of death worldwide. On top of this, one in three adults has three or more risk factors contributing to kidney disease, heart disease and metabolic disorders. In other words, many people should be aware of these risks and work toward eliminating and reducing them.
CKM Symptoms, Stages & Treatments
CKM syndrome has four stages. Yet, it’s worth noting that many experts also refer to a fifth and initial stage called CKM Stage 0.
At this stage, individuals may not have any noticeable symptoms, and their laboratory tests (such as blood glucose or kidney function tests) may still fall within the normal range. However, the presence of these risk factors suggests that they are more likely to develop CKM syndrome in the future if no preventive measures are taken.
The primary goal of identifying individuals in Stage 0 is to implement early interventions and lifestyle modifications that can help prevent or delay the onset of CKM syndrome. These interventions may include:
- Adopting a healthy diet (e.g., low in saturated fats, high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains).
- Increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior.
- Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure, blood glucose and lipid profile.
Without such interventions, CKM may progress to Stages 1, 2, 3 or 4. Let’s take a closer look at what the symptoms and treatments of each of these stages involve.
Stage 1: Early Signs
This stage is marked by too much body fat, particularly around the middle, and higher blood sugar levels, potentially without a diabetes diagnosis.
Generally, the advice is to follow preventative recommendations similar to Stage 0. Weight loss is also a recommended strategy to reverse and treat this stage. Regular monitoring is usually suggested, especially for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Stage 2: Health Risks Appear
These health risks usually include a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and kidney disease. Again, lifestyle factors continue to be recommended to reverse and treat this. Monitoring of cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels is continued, but testing is performed more frequently.
On top of the above, your doctor may prescribe certain medications for diabetes and high cholesterol. However, this varies on a case-by-case basis.
Stage 3: Heart Problems Start
If a proactive approach isn’t taken to reduce and reverse the risks that arise in Stage 2, the heart and cardiovascular system may begin to take a serious hit. In other words, blood vessel and heart issues often arise at this point.
How is it treated? Lifestyle approaches, like in Stage 0, will still be recommended. The dosages of medications may also be altered according to your test results. Additional testing, monitoring and prescriptions may be advised for any arterial problems that occur.
Stage 4: Heart Symptoms Begin
This is where life-threatening signs and symptoms begin to appear. For example, a person may experience a heart attack or stroke — or simply begin to show signs of serious heart problems like shortness of breath, fatigue and more.
This stage is further separated into two substages where people may experience kidney failure or not. Depending on what is happening per each individual, treatment may vary.
Taking a Preventative Approach
At every stage, lifestyle changes matter. These are likely to have the most positive impact and prevent an individual from reaching Stage 4. If you’re concerned about your kidney, heart or metabolic health, it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor. They know you and your unique health history the best and can help guide you on the most appropriate path forward.