Kidney health is vital for your overall well-being. Your kidney performs some crucial functions like filtering waste from the blood, regulating blood pressure and balancing body fluids. Ignoring kidney heath can result in chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure. Learn to keep track of your kidney.
Importance of Kidney Health
We, at Eastern Diagnostics, would like to remind you that kidneys are vital organs that play a crucial role in your body’s vital functioning. They are filtering out toxins, balancing electrolytes and regulating your blood pressure. Naturally, poor kidney health leads to complications like hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and severe kidney damage requiring dialysis or transplant.
Be Aware of Risk Factors
There are certain factors that increases the risk of kidney disease like:
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time.
Hypertension: High blood pressure can affect the kidneys.
Family History: A family history of kidney disease can increase your risk.
Age: The risk of kidney disease increases with age.
Lifestyle: Poor diet, lack of exercise and smoking can contribute to kidney problems.
Regular Health Check-ups
We, at Eastern Diagnostics, advise routine health check-ups, which are crucial for early detection and treatment of kidney-related diseases. Key tests should include:
Blood Pressure Monitoring: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for kidney disease.
Blood Tests: Tests such as Serum Creatinine and GFR( Glomerular Filtration Rate) measure kidney function.
Urine Tests: Checking for blood or protein in the urine can indicate kidney damage.
Blood Sugar Tests: Regular monitoring is a must for diabetes management.
Adopt a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Diet plays a vital role in maintaining kidney help. Consider Eastern Diagnostics’ dieting tips mentioned below:
Reduce Sodium Intake: High salt intake can increase blood pressure stressing the kidneys.
Limit Protein: Excessive protein intake can overwork the kidneys. Try and opt for plant-based proteins.
Stay Hydrated: Drink adequate water to help the kidneys flush out toxins.
Eat Kidney-Friendly Food: Eat more fruits and vegetables, whole grains and foods low in saturated fats.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity helps maintain healthy blood pressure and body weight, reducing the strain on your kidneys. Ensure 30 minutes of moderate exercise like walking, swimming or cycling, most days of the week.
Monitor Medication
Certain medications affect kidney function, especially over-the –counter pain killers. Always consult a doctor before taking new medications or supplements.
Manage Health Conditions
Managing conditions like diabetes and hypertensions is crucial for kidney health. Follow doctor’s advice and prescribed medicines and make lifestyle changes as required.
Avoid Smoking, Limit Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol consumption can damage kidneys. Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys and increases risk of cancer. Limit alcohol intake to moderate levels.
Recognize Warning Signs
Be aware of symptoms indicating kidney problems, such as:
Swelling: Oedema in the legs, ankles or face due to fluid retention.
Fatigue: Extreme tiredness or difficulty in concentrating.
Changes in Urination: Frequency, colour or appearance of urine.
Shortness of Breath: Due to fluid build-up in the lungs.
Pain: Persistent pain in the lower back or sides.
Consult a Specialist
If you have risk factors or symptoms of kidney disease, consult a nephrologist (kidney specialist).He will provide the best advice and treatment plans to effectively manage your kidney health.
Eastern Diagnostics’ Advice
Keeping track of your kidney health involves a combination of regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle and managing underlying health conditions. A kidney-friendly diet, staying active and recognizing warning signs are the keys to overall well-being. Consultations with a specialist, and following his advice, are a must. Take charge of your kidneys for a better tomorrow.