World Kidney Day

Our kidneys are true champions when it comes to multitasking, constantly working to maintain our well-being and keep us feeling our best. It's time to show these little powerhouses some well-deserved care on this World Kidney Day!

Kidney Care Day: Kidneys Matter, Show Some Care

World Kidney Day is an annual global event, marked on 9th March every year, that aims and focuses to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health and reduce the global prevalence of kidney disease.

Millions of people are suffering from kidney disease, which is a serious public health issue. According to studies, one in ten people suffers from kidney disease.

The main risk factors for kidney disease include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and a family history of kidney disease. Kidney disease can also be caused by autoimmune diseases, infections, and drug abuse.

6 Activities Performed by Healthy Kidneys

Proper kidney function is essential for general health and well-being. Following are some of the functions of the kidneys:

• Filter toxins and wastes from the blood.
• Control the fluid levels in the body.
• Release a blood pressure-regulating hormone.
• Maintain strong bones by activating vitamin D.
• Release the hormone that controls red blood cell formation.
• Maintain blood mineral balance (sodium, phosphorus, potassium).

8 Problems Caused by Kidney Disease

• Heart attack and stroke
• High blood pressure
• Put the life at risk
• Weak bones
• Heart disease
• Kidney failure (end-stage kidney disease, or ESRD)
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Anaemia or low red blood cell count

8 Possible Trouble Signs of Kidney Disease

Here are some of the symptoms which should not be ignored:

• Pink, dark urine (blood in urine)
• Difficult, painful urination
• Increased need to urinate
• Increased thirst
• Fatigue, weakness
• Swollen hands, face, feet, abdomen, ankles
• Puffy eyes
• Foamy urine

Life-saving Tests for Kidney Disease

Blood Pressure (BP Test)

• High blood pressure can damage the tiny arteries of the kidneys (glomeruli). It is the second leading cause of kidney failure after diabetes.
• Good Score: For most people, blood pressure should be under 140/90. If you have chronic renal disease, a blood pressure reading under 130 is better. Below 120/80 is regarded as best. To find out more about renal disease-related BP, speak with your kidney doctor.

Protein in Urine (Urine Test)

• Albuminuria, or the presence of albumin traces in the urine, may be a sign of renal disease. Proteinuria, which is the regular presence of albumin and other proteins in the urine, is a sign of damaged kidneys.
• Good Score: The ratio of albumin to urine creatinine is under 30 mg (a normal waste product).

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) KFT (Kidney Function Test)

• Kidney function test evaluates how effectively the kidneys filter blood. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is examined by doctors based on blood creatinine levels (GFR).
• Good Score: Over 90 is considered good. A score of less than 60 for 3 months indicates renal dysfunction.

Things Everyone Should Do For Kidney Disease Prevention

World Kidney Day is an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness about the prevention and early detection of kidney-related health problems. It can help reduce the risk of kidney disease and improve outcomes for those who are already affected. Preventive steps can be taken by maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

• Exercise regularly
• Control weight
• Follow a balanced diet
• Quit smoking
• Drink alcohol only in moderation
• Stay hydrated
• Monitor cholesterol levels
• Get an annual physical health checkup done
• Know your family medical history

People with existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, should manage their conditions through medication and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of kidney damage.

Early detection involves regular screening for kidney disease, especially for those at high risk, such as those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Tests like a blood or urine test can detect early signs of kidney disease, and an early intervention can slow down or even prevent the progression of the disease.

Frequently Asked Questions