Final answer:
Option B. Risk factors for kidney disease include diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Other factors like obesity, poor nutrition, and a lack of physical activity also play a significant role in increasing the risk. Kidney stones and being over 60 can contribute to kidney issues but are not chronic risk factors for kidney disease itself.
Step-by-step explanation:
Risk factors for kidney disease include a variety of health conditions and lifestyle factors. The provided options include several recognized risks:
- Diabetes mellitus is a well-established risk factor for kidney disease, particularly as it can lead to diabetic nephropathy, a progressive kidney disease caused by damage to the capillaries in the kidneys due to high levels of glucose in the blood.
- Hypertension or high blood pressure is a major risk factor as it can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to function properly.
- Kidney stones, while they can lead to kidney damage if recurrent or left untreated, are not generally considered a chronic risk factor for kidney disease itself.
- Being over 60 is associated with an increased risk of kidney disease simply due to the decrease in kidney function that can come with age.
Additionally, obesity, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use can greatly increase the risk of developing kidney disease. Diabetic nephropathy often presents no symptoms initially and may take years to become apparent. When symptoms do appear, they can include severe tiredness, headaches, and nausea, among others. Treatment for advanced kidney disease may include dialysis.