Can You Reverse Kidney Damage? What the Science Really Says

January 20, 2025
CKD Research, Kidney Health, Treatment

The short answer: Not usually. But you can stop progression—and in early stages, even improve function slightly. Let's explain.

What's Reversible (Sometimes)

  • • Acute kidney injury (AKI)
  • • CKD due to dehydration or meds
  • • Inflammation (early diabetic nephropathy)

What's Not Reversible

  • • Fibrosis and sclerosis of kidney tissue
  • • Long-term hypertension damage

What You Can Do

  • • Tight blood pressure & sugar control
  • • Kidney-protective drugs (RAAS blockers)
  • • Follow dietary restrictions by stage
  • • Address underlying causes (e.g. glomerulonephritis, infections)

Hope for the Future

  • • Trials underway for stem cell therapy
  • • New drugs (SGLT2 inhibitors, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists) offer hope

References

• JASN Reviews

• KDIGO 2023 Early CKD Report

• NIH Clinical Trials Database

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Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.