Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease, also known as chronic renal failure, chronic renal disease, or chronic kidney failure, is far more common than most people realise, and it frequently stays unreported and untreated until the disease has progressed significantly. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and other illnesses can lead to kidney disease. Early treatment can typically prevent the progression of chronic renal disease. When the disease continues, it can lead to renal failure, which necessitates dialysis or a kidney transplant in order to stay alive.
Causes
Kidneys are responsible for our bodies' complicated filtration mechanism, which removes excess waste and fluid material from the blood and excretes it. Most waste materials produced by our bodies can be eliminated through our kidneys. However, if the blood flow to the kidneys is restricted, or if the kidneys are not functioning effectively due to damage or disease, complications can arise.
Some of the various causes are:
- Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Glomerulonephritis
- Interstitial Nephritis
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Prolonged obstruction of the urinary tract
- Vesicoureteral Reflux
- Pyelonephritis
- Loss of blood flow to the kidney
- Blood clot
- Lupus
The important causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. When your blood sugar levels are too high, diabetes damages several organs in your body, including your kidneys and heart, as well as your blood vessels, nerves, and eyes. When the pressure of your blood against the walls of your blood vessels rises, you have high blood pressure, or hypertension. High blood pressure, whether uncontrolled or poorly regulated, is a primary cause of heart attacks, strokes, and chronic renal disease. High blood pressure can also be a symptom of chronic renal disease.
Symptoms
The most common sign and symptoms are:
- Loss of appetite
- Problems while sleeping
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of your face
- Headache
- Swelling of feet
- Drowsiness
- Itching
- Nausea and vomiting
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Coma
- Seizures
Preventions
There are things you can do to lower your chances of renal failure. While taking over-the-counter drugs, follow the guidelines carefully. Taking excessively high doses (even of basic medications like aspirin) might quickly result in elevated toxic levels. This can put a strain on your kidneys. For reducing the risk of developing Kidney Disease:
Over-the-count Medications:
Before starting any nonprescription drugs or pain killers follow the instructions written on the package. Consuming too much of pain killer can cause damage to the kidney. Consult with your doctor before taking any drugs.
Healthy Weight:
Maintain a healthy weight by being physically active throughout the day. If you are overweight and want to reduce your weight consult your doctor for appropriate weight loss. This usually entails increasing regular physical activity while also lowering calorie intake.
Managing Chronic Condition:
Some of the specific conditions can increase the risk of kidney diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Controlling the illness can greatly lower the likelihood of renal failure. Individuals should follow to their doctor's directions, guidance, and suggestions.
Maintaining Proper Diet:
Blood pressure can be controlled by eating a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats or fish.
Avoid Smoking:
Smoking cigarettes can cause some serious cause to kidneys and damage it.
Physical Activity:
Regular physical activity not only helps to maintain good blood pressure levels but also aids in the management of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Individuals should see a physician ensure that an exercise regimen is appropriate for their age, weight, and overall health.
Tips to Keep the Kidney Healthy
Living a healthy lifestyle can help you retain a healthy kidney. Kidney function can be improved by eating a balanced diet and living a stress-free lifestyle. Tips to keep your kidneys healthy:
- Avoid food with high cholesterol level
- Control your blood sugar
- Reduce the intake of salts
- Eat a balanced diet
- Quit smoking
- Avoid the excessive consumption of alcohol
When to visit a Doctor
If you have any indications or symptoms of renal disease, make an appointment with your doctor. If you have a medical condition that puts you at risk for kidney disease, your doctor will likely use urine and blood tests to check your blood pressure and kidney function on a regular basis. Consult your doctor to see if these tests are required for you.
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