What Is CKM Syndrome? Know About The Link Between Heart, Kidney, And Metabolic Health

The health of the heart, kidneys, and the body's metabolism are all connected. It is, therefore, extremely important to maintain a healthy lifestyle so that all your parameters are within a healthy and reasonable range. Read on to know more from a doctor.

What Is CKM Syndrome? Know About The Link Between Heart, Kidney, And Metabolic Health (Photo: Freepik)

Link between kidney, heart, and metabolic health: There is a connection between the health of the heart, kidneys, and the body's metabolism. It is known as cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic (CKM) syndrome, which is a serious health condition. Doctors explain this syndrome links cardiovascular disease with chronic kidney conditions, and metabolic disorders like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Timely management, therefore, is crucial for improving the quality of the patient's life. Read on to know more about the health problem, and its causes and symptoms to watch out for.

What Makes CKM Syndrome Concerning?

Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, consultant cardiac surgeon at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai says that CKM syndrome is a newly-recognised health issue raising concern in the country.

"CKM is a dangerous combination of three interconnected health conditions: heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, obesity, and insulin resistance. It tends to impact one's overall well-being," the doctor warns.

What Is CKM Syndrome?

Dr Bhamre cautions that CKM syndrome can affect major body systems. "It is a group of interrelated conditions," he explains, adding that a patient can often suffer from high blood pressure and blood sugar, abnormal levels of bad cholesterol, and kidney dysfunction -- all of which can put immense strain on the heart and the vascular system. "This syndrome raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and even early death," he states.

CKM Syndrome Causes

These are the top causes of CKM syndrome:

• Uncontrolled diabetes, high blood sugar;
• Obesity, abdominal fat;
• High blood pressure;
• Sedentary lifestyle, poor diet;
• Smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol;
• Family history of metabolic or heart disease

Important Symptoms To Watch Out For

Here are some crucial signs and symptoms of CKM syndrome:

1. Fatigue and shortness of breath;
2. Swelling in the legs or ankles (because of kidney or heart disease);
3. High blood pressure;
4. Unexplained weight gain, difficulty losing weight;
5. Frequent urination, especially at night;
6. Chest pain or discomfort;

Symptoms often develop slowly and go unnoticed, until complications arise, the doctor warns.

Treatment Options

The cardiac surgeon explains that managing CKM syndrome requires a multidisciplinary approach. "It includes lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring," he says, adding that it is important for the patient to consume a diet that is low in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. They must exercise daily for at least 45 minutes, check their blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and take medication, as prescribed by the doctor.

In addition to that, patients must also go for regular kidney function tests and check-ups, maintain an optimum weight, and avoid eating junk food.

"Early diagnosis and quick medical intervention can reduce the risk of serious health complications. CKM syndrome stresses on the fact that the heart, kidneys, and metabolism are all connected. Take utmost care of yourself," the expert concludes.