Kidney Care: Simple Steps to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy
Did you know that over 14% of U.S. adults have some form of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and many don't even realize it?
The Body's Silent Workers
The kidneys are like the body's silent workers, filtering about 150 quarts of blood daily. When they're not working right, it can lead to serious health issues like:
- Heart problems
- Anemia
- Kidney failure
Risk Factors
Most people with CKD don't show symptoms until it's quite advanced. That's why it's crucial to know if you're at risk. Factors like:
- Genetics
- Family history
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
Even long-term use of certain pain medications can be harmful.
Symptoms
When kidneys aren't functioning well, it affects every part of the body. People with CKD might notice:
- Swelling in their legs, feet, or face
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Trouble concentrating
Advanced kidney disease can seriously wear down the body, especially the heart and brain.
Prevention and Treatment
If you're at risk, it's a good idea to get tested before symptoms appear. Blood and urine tests can help doctors check your kidney health. If you're diagnosed with CKD, you'll likely need to make some changes to your diet:
- Avoid foods high in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus
- Limit protein intake, depending on how advanced your kidney disease is
Your doctor will probably suggest:
- Exercising more
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol
- Managing stress
- Medication
In severe cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary.
Taking Control
Being proactive about your kidney health is essential. Talk to your doctor about:
- How often you should have kidney-function tests
- Keeping your blood sugar and blood pressure under control
- Changes to your medications or doses
- Keeping your kidney disease from getting worse
- Seeing a kidney specialist
Taking control of your health can make a big difference. Dietary management and lifestyle changes can help you actively participate in your well-being, rather than feeling like the disease is in control.
