World Kidney Day 2023
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. This year, World Kidney Day 2023 theme is Kidney Health for All—Preparing for the Unexpected, Supporting the Vulnerable!" which emphasizes the importance of kidney disease early detection, effective management, and care.
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)
- Anemia 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
Know the Simple, Life-saving Tests for Kidney Disease:
1. 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.
2. 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).
3. Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) (blood test) KFT (Kidney function test)
- This 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.
9 Things Everyone Should Do For Kidney Diseases 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 risks, 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.
Living Well with Kidney Disease
Kidney disease does not have to define your life; with good care and treatment, you can live well. You can keep growing and live your best life. Let's raise awareness and support those with kidney disease on this important day! Living with kidney-related disorders can be challenging, but with the right care and support, people can live full and productive lives. This involves managing the disease through lifestyle changes, treatment, and support. Some strategies for living well with kidney disease include:
- Following a kidney-friendly diet that limits sodium, potassium, and phosphorus and includes adequate protein and calories.
- Regularly engaging in physical activities to improve overall health and well-being.
- Taking medications as prescribed to manage underlying conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which can contribute to kidney disease.
- Staying informed about the disease and its management through education and support groups.
- Managing stress through techniques like meditation and counseling.
- Getting enough sleep, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol intake.
- Maintaining social connections and engaging in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being.
World Kidney Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of living well with kidney disease and to promote strategies for improving kidney health and overall well-being.
Healthy pair of kidneys means a healthy body and a healthy life!
Take a moment to appreciate your hard working kidneys today - they're the unsung heroes that filter out the bad and keep the good, and they deserve all the care and attention we can give them!
