How does water retention affect patients with advanced CKD?

Water retention in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses significant health risks, as it can lead to increased blood pressure and heart complications. In CKD, the kidneys are less effective in removing excess fluids and waste products from the body, contributing to fluid overload.

Increased blood pressure is a direct consequence of this fluid retention, which can strain the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this added pressure can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are already more prevalent in individuals with CKD due to the interplay of various factors, including electrolyte imbalances and inflammation.

Heart complications can manifest as heart failure, where the heart struggles to pump blood effectively due to the volume overload. This sets off a cycle where the heart's functionality and overall health decline, complicating the management of CKD and potentially leading to serious health crises.

The other choices do not adequately capture the significance of water retention in advanced CKD. It is not a benign issue with no significant health implications, nor does it affect only appetite, and while it may influence dialysis effectiveness, the primary concern regarding fluid overload is the critical impact on blood pressure and cardiovascular health.