Your kidneys are the twin organs which filter toxins from your blood and maintain the balance of fluids and electrolytes in your body. They also produce hormones which regulate blood pressure, make red blood cells, regulate pH, and maintain strong bones.
Do you know if your kidneys are functioning properly? In this informational blog, we discuss the importance of keeping kidneys healthy and provide you with valuable information for maintaining optimal renal function.
What is Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease is a chronic—and serious—health issue which impacts about 37 million Americans.
Symptoms of chronic kidney disease (CKD) include:
- Urinating frequency
- Lower back pain
- Swelling in the lower extremities
- Extremely dry skin
- Mental fog, trouble sleeping and difficulty concentrating
- Blood in the urine
However, many people with CKD do not even know it until very late in the course of the disease. As such, if you have risk factors for poor kidney health such as diabetes and hypertension, your primary care physician should screen you periodically to make sure your kidneys are as healthy as possible.
What Can You Do to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy and Functioning?
The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing kidney disease and to keep your kidneys healthy and functioning properly. Here are a few tips to help you keep your kidneys health.
Tip #1: Stay Well-Hydrated
Staying properly hydrated is easier than you may think. Be sure you drink at least eight glasses of water—about 64 ounces—daily. Add more if you are working out, doing strenuous labor or are outside in the sun and heat.
Tip #2: Exercise Regularly
Routine, light aerobic exercise benefits your whole body—heart, lungs, brain, musculoskeletal system and yes, your kidneys. Try doing at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Exercise also assists in maintaining a healthy body weight, providing further protection for your kidney function.
Tip #3: Eat a Nutritious Diet
A nutritious diet is essential for maintaining good overall health, including kidney health. Include lots of fruits and vegetables every day. Add lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and beans. Be sure to limit processed foods, salt, sugary snacks, and high-fat dairy products.
Tip #4: Quit Smoking
Smoking damages blood vessels, thus increasing your risk of developing kidney disease. If you are a smoker, ask your doctor about options to help you stop the habit.
Tip #5: Control Your Blood Pressure and Manage Diabetes
High blood pressure and diabetes are two major risk factors for kidney disease. Make sure you get regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor these conditions and follow his or her recommendations for treatment, including taking your prescribed medications.
Tip#6: Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Too much alcohol impairs normal kidney function. So, if you are a man, have no more than two alcoholic beverages a day. If you are a woman, have no more than one. If you already have chronic kidney disease, it is best to avoid alcohol completely.
Tip #7: Know Your Risk Factors
Besides hypertension and diabetes, family history of kidney disease can also put you at risk for developing it yourself. Be sure your PCP tests your urine for protein (albumin) with each annual check-up.
Protein in the urine is an indicator that chronic kidney disease has begun. So, catch the problem early for easier and more successful management.
Other risk factors for CKD include:
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Kidney stones
- Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus
- Family history of kidney disease, hypertension, and diabetes
Tip #8: Avoid Certain Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications
Some over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medicines can impact the health of your kidneys. For instance, NSAIDS—even in an OTC strength—can impair kidney function. Ask your primary care physician or kidney specialist about how your prescription or OTC medications, vitamins, or supplements may be affecting your renal health and function.
Kidney Specialist Near You in Abington, MA
At Associates in Nephrology, our three board-certified kidney specialists are passionate about patient education and want you to learn all you can about healthy kidney habits.
To book a friendly and informative consultation, please call our office today at (518) 587-0700. You also may request a visit here. Come see us soon at one of our two state-of-the-art locations. We look forward to helping you maintain your best renal function and health.
