Many of us don’t pay much attention to our kidneys. In reality, 33% of adults are at risk of kidney disease. This is because of factors like high blood pressure, diabetes and genetics. Additionally, many people don’t realize that the early stages of kidney disease can be asymptomatic, so they don’t get tested or treated until it is too late.
Here are some things you can do to or avoid to protect your kidneys:
Get Regularly Checked
Tuning up your car keeps it running smoothly, so why not do the same with your body? A urine test and a blood test might be used by your doctor to screen for kidney disease. A urine test called albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) determines if your urine contains a protein called albumin. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a blood test that measures how efficiently your kidneys operate to eliminate waste from your body.
Limit Those Pain Meds
Overuse of pain relievers known as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen) can lead to renal damage. Long-term use of NSAIDs, especially at high dosages, lowers blood flow to the kidney, causing renal tissue damage. Inquire with your doctor about different pain relievers, such as acetaminophen.
Manage Your Blood Sugar
Many factors, including those beyond a person’s control, such as hormones, sickness, or stress, can affect blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can cause blood vessels inside the kidney to constrict and clog over time, causing damage to the blood vessels and injury to the kidneys. If you have diabetes, the greatest method to preserve your kidneys is to control your blood sugar levels as much as possible. Your treatment strategy may include dietary modifications, exercise, and medication to help reduce your blood sugar levels.
Eat Healthy & Stretch Your Bones
A healthy food plan, such as the Mediterranean Diet and the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Diet, can aid in the reduction of blood pressure and blood lipids (fat in the blood). These eating programs include fresh fruits and vegetables, fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products, whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, seeds, and nuts. They are also lower in salt, carbohydrates, fats, and red meat. You’ve heard it before, and we’ll repeat it: you need to exercise. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, regulate your blood pressure and cholesterol, increase your strength and endurance, and reduce your risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease. Walking, domestic chores, sports, and aerobic exercise are all workouts that help you stay healthy (jogging, swimming, biking, climbing stairs, or hiking).
Keep in mind that your kidney situation is unique. You may see your doctor and work with your healthcare team to get tailored advice on keeping your kidneys working longer. The finest outcomes will come from an open and regular dialogue. Talk to your doctor about your thoughts and physical condition, and seek suggestions on how to communicate about CKD with your family. Your healthcare team wants to help you stay physically and emotionally well.
Sources and Reference:
- Chronic Kidney Disease Mayo Clinic, September 3,2021, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354527