Last Update: February 05, 2023, 16:14 IST
The best way to prevent chronic kidney disease is to maintain healthy cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure levels. (Image: shutterstock)
There’s a very important reason why you shouldn’t wait until symptoms appear to take care of your kidney health.
The kidneys of an adult human are no bigger than the size of a fist. These tiny organs are responsible for filtering waste and toxins from the entire body’s blood every half hour. Although highly efficient, the kidneys are susceptible to many diseases. One of these, which is commonly seen all over the world, is chronic kidney disease. The damage in this disease occurs gradually over a long period of time. This results in the organs not being able to filter the blood properly as they should.
Symptom
Typically, symptoms of chronic kidney disease include swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands, fatigue, chest pain, frequent urination, and blood in the urine. People with kidney disease may also develop anemia, bone disease, and malnutrition. However, because the kidneys are exceptionally efficient organs, even when they begin to accumulate damage, these symptoms usually do not appear in the early stages. Most noticeable changes only become visible when the damage is extensive enough. Thus, one has to actively try to avoid chronic kidney disease long before any signs of a problem are visible.
Redressal
The best way to prevent chronic kidney disease is to maintain healthy cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure levels. This is because high BP can put pressure on the small blood vessels in the kidneys, while high cholesterol can cause fatty deposits to build up in these vessels. Both can hinder the proper functioning of the kidneys. High blood glucose, on the other hand, can damage the tiny filters in the kidneys.
Reduced alcohol consumption: Consuming excessive alcohol can lead to an unhealthy increase in BP and cholesterol levels. The prescribed limit of intake should be followed.
Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine: A healthy, balanced diet is essential to keep your BP, cholesterol and blood sugar levels under control.
Be careful with painkillers: Taking too many non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), or taking them over a long period of time, can harm kidney health. Common examples of NSAIDs include aspirin and ibuprofen.
Manage underlying conditions: Management of high BP, diabetes, and any other cardiac condition is essential to maintain well-functioning kidneys.
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