The kidneys’ main job is to keep a balance of salt and fluid in your body. CKD causes the kidneys to not work as they should. As a result, fluid can collect in parts of your body. When this occurs, it is called “fluid buildup,” or “edema.”
Recurring fluid buildup can actually worsen your kidney disease over time. As your kidneys struggle to work, your risk of fluid buildup can increase even more. And fluid buildup may not only affect your kidneys—it can also negatively impact heart health.
Many people with CKD (and heart failure) can avoid these risks by watching for any signs or symptoms of fluid buildup—like those listed below—and alerting their care team right away.
mostly in the feet, ankles, legs, fingers, and stomach area
during activity
or discomfort when lying down
Gaining weight quickly can mean your fluid has started building up
Even if you don’t have swelling, it’s important to always check your weight!
Let your doctor know when your weight goes up rapidly
To manage fluid buildup, your care team will likely have you take an oral diuretic, also known as a water pill, every day.
However, sometimes fluid buildup can’t be managed by oral diuretics alone, even when they are increased or changed. If your fluid keeps building up despite oral diuretics, your care team may try a diuretic that is not taken by mouth and instead goes more quickly into your bloodstream.
If you have fluid buildup that is not improving, FUROSCIX has you covered. A different kind of treatment option, FUROSCIX goes quickly into your bloodstream but can be used in your own home—either by yourself or with a caregiver.