Can kidney failure be treated with oriental medicine?

Dear doctor, I am 56 years old. Two weeks ago, I found out that I have end-stage chronic kidney failure. The doctor advised me to undergo regular dialysis or peritoneal dialysis. But a few days ago, someone I know told me that smoking can cure the disease. I am confused, so I would like to ask the doctor for advice.

(Mr. Van Tan, residing in Nhon Trach commune)

Doctor replied:

Hello!

We need to understand that the kidney in oriental medicine and the kidney in western medicine are different, so kidney failure in oriental medicine and western medicine are also different, but the names are similar so it is easy to misunderstand.

Currently, there is no large enough research to prove that traditional medicine can effectively treat end-stage renal failure. In your case, you have been diagnosed with end-stage renal failure, so renal replacement therapy (peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, kidney transplant) is necessary. Traditional medicine should not be used because it does not bring benefits and can cause serious harm such as: edema, shortness of breath, hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, making the condition worse, even life-threatening.

You can go to the Nephrology Clinic, Dong Nai General Hospital for further examination and consultation.

Hello sir!

Specialist Doctor 1 Dang Hoang Hai,

Department of Hemodialysis - Artificial Kidney, Dong Nai General Hospital

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/alo--bac-si-oi/202507/uong-thuoc-dong-y-chua-suy-than-duoc-khong-af61703/