One in every 10 Americans shows evidence of kidney disease. In some cases, kidney disease is detected at the late stages when it when the kidneys have already failed.
The most common types of kidney disease include:
• Chronic kidney disease- this is the most common form of kidney disease that is mostly caused by high blood pressure. High blood pressure is very dangerous for the kidneys as it can lead to kidney failure. Diabetes is another cause of chronic kidney disease. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can also lead to kidney failure.
• Kidney stones- occurs when minerals and other substances in the blood crystallize in the kidneys forming solid particles that pass out of the body in urine.
• Urinary tract infections- consistent untreated UTIs can eventually lead to kidney disease.
• Polycystic kidney disease- this is a genetic disorder that causes cysts to grow on the kidneys interfering with kidney function.
• Glomerulonephritis- this is an inflammation of the structures responsible for blood filtration.
Maintaining kidney health is essential in preventing these kidney diseases and maintaining an overall healthy body.
Here are some tips to help maintain healthy kidneys.
1. Control your blood sugar
Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease. When your body’s cells can’t utilize the glucose in the blood, the kidneys are forced to work harder to filter your blood. Over the years, this exertion becomes life-threatening.
By controlling your blood sugar, you reduce the risk of this exertion, and if the damage is detected early, further damage can be prevented.
2. Monitor blood pressure
High blood pressure can damage your kidneys mainly when it occurs with other health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or heart disease.
Healthy blood pressure can be maintained through lifestyle and dietary changes. You should also talk to your doctor about monitoring your blood pressure regularly.
3. Hydrate
Regular, consistent water intake is very healthy for your kidneys. It helps clear sodium and toxins from your kidneys and also lowers your risk of chronic kidney disease. The amount of water taken should depend on factors such as gender, climate, exercise, and overall health.
Also, ensure that you drink plenty of water if you have had kidney stones in the past to prevent stone deposits in the future.
4. Eat healthy foods
Most kidney problems are caused by other medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. It is, therefore, vital that you follow healthy eating habits to control weight and blood pressure.
5. Exercise regularly
Like eating healthy foods, regular physical activity can help prevent conditions that cause kidney disease. Simple exercises, such as running or cycling are quite enough. You do not have to go overboard with the exercise as they can do more harm than good, especially if you are at high risk for heart disease.
6. If you’re at risk, get regular check-ups
If you’re at great risk of kidney damage or kidney disease, ensure that you get regular kidney tests. A comprehensive metabolic panel quest is one example of a kidney test that helps you know your kidney’s health and to check for possible changes.
7. Do not overtake OTC pills
Regularly taking over-the-counter pain medication can damage your kidneys. Common non-prescription pills such as ibuprofen can cause kidney damage over time. Ensure that you talk to your doctor if you take these medications for chronic pain so that he can recommend kidney-safe medication.
8. Quit smoking
Smoking can cause blood vessel damage, which decreases the flow of blood in the kidneys. When the kidneys have inadequate blood, they can’t function like they supposed to. Smoking can also be the root of high blood pressure and kidney cancer.