Q: I am a 29 years old woman suffering from focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) for the last 10 years. My urine routine report shows traces of protein and low specific gravity and my serum creatinine and blood urea is increasing. The serum creatinine is 2.0 mg/dL and blood urea is 79 mg/dL. Last year, it was 1.6 mg/dL. What could be the reason behind this sudden increase in creatinine level? The doctor says everything is under control. Now I am taking a low sodium diet with medications - Envas 5 mg OD, Losar 100 mg OD, Shelcal 500 mg BD, iron supplement and Rocaltrol. What should I do to delay the progression? How long will my kidneys work?

A:FSGS is a progressive disorder with no full proof effective treatment. To slow the rate of deterioration the most important factor is blood pressure. You should target your blood pressure control less than 130/80 mmHg all the time. The degree of protein excretion also determine rate of deterioration. So one should attempt reducing protein leak. How long will the kidneys work will depend on how effectively the above-mentioned parameters are controlled.