Preventing Chronic Kidney Diseases
The slow, progessive deterioration of your kidneys is termed as Chronic Kidney Disease or CKD. Your body is unable to filter blood like it should due to kidney dysfunction, leading to the accumulation of toxic wastes in your bloodstream. Coupled with other existing medical conditions and further health complications that CKD may bring, it is important to consult a doctor at the earliest sign of kidney damage or concerns regarding the same. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disorders, it is recommended that you get health checkups that include complete blood and urine profile done regularly.
Read this blog to further understand your risk of CKD, how to identify symptoms of kidney damage as they may not be apparent and know the preventive steps to be taken to maintain healthy kidneys.
> Analysing the Risk Groups
You are more likely to get a Chronic Kidney Disease if you have the following risk factors:
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Diabetes
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Heart disease
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High blood pressure
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Family history of CKD
> Identifying the Symptoms
Most people with kidney disorders may not experience any signs until very late stages of kidney failure.
Consult with a Nephrologist if you fall into the risk category and are experiencing the following symptoms:
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Weakness and fatigue
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Frequent urination
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Bloody/ foamy urine
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Trouble sleeping
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Swollen ankles and feet
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Frequent muscle cramping
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Trouble concentrating
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Dry and itchy skin
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Persistent puffiness around your eyes
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Poor appetite
> Diagnosing CKD
While a blood test is the main test done to determine the extent of kidney damage, if any, other tests are also done to confirm the diagnosis.
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Blood test
A blood test measures the levels of creatinine (waste product) in your blood. These readings are used by the doctor along with other factors such as age, size and gender to determine how many millilitres of waste your kidneys should be able to filter in a minute. Healthy kidneys should be able to filter more than 90ml/min. If your rate is lower than this, you may have or be at a risk of CKD
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Urine test
This test reveals the levels of albumin and creatinine in your urine. Along with the rate of filtration determined by your blood test, the urine test can help give a more accurate picture of how well your kidneys are functioning.
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Other tests
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Ultrasound scan
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MRI / CT scan
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Kidney biopsy (sample of kidney tissue removed to be examined for signs of damage
> Understanding the Preventive Measures
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Quit smoking
Smoking increases your risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, heart failure or even stroke, which in turn is associated with a higher risk of CKD.
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Maintain a healthy diet plan
A healthy, balanced diet full of fresh fruits & vegetables, dairy and legumes can contribute to keeping your kidneys healthy by regulating blood pressure and cholesterol levels in your body
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Manage alcohol intake
Excessive amounts of alcohol can cause your blood pressure to spike and put you at a higher risk of a kidney disorder.
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Exercise regularly
It is recommended that at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as cycling or fast walking every week be incorporated in your schedule for good overall health.
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Use painkillers wisely
Kidney disease can be caused by taking too many non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, or taking them for longer than recommended.
The Department of Nephrology at A.J. Hospital & Research Centre, Mangalore, offers comprehensive medical solutions to all kidney ailments and related urinary difficulties. Visit: www.ajhospital.in or call +91 824 222 5533 to book an appointment.