The proper functioning of the kidneys is essential for the health and functioning of the organism as a whole, but often these organs are often neglected.
Some diseases show no apparent symptoms at first and the diagnosis is only made when they are already advanced, which complicates the treatment and compromises the cure. This is the case of Chronic Kidney Diseases, also known as CKD, a term that refers to diseases that affect the kidneys for more than 3 months.
In the body, the kidneys are vital and have the function of filtering the blood, controlling the body's water and salt levels by eliminating toxins and any toxic substances and waste from the body through the urine, as well as helping to control high blood pressure, Mineral salts, hormones, and nutrients stimulate the production of red blood cells.
With different degrees of severity, the main renal diseases are nephritis, urinary tract infection, kidney stones, urinary obstruction, acute and chronic renal failure, renal tumors, multisystemic, congenital and hereditary diseases, and toxic nephropathies. Factors such as a history of kidney disease, hypertension, and diabetes, both in oneself and in one's family, are considered at risk and may increase the chances of developing kidney disease.
Those who are part of this group should redouble their care to control blood pressure, blood glucose, observe typical changes in kidney diseases such as increased levels of calcium and phosphorus, and especially follow up with a nephrologist. Through periodic laboratory tests, it is possible to observe the regular functioning of the kidneys and make an early diagnosis if problems arise.
Symptoms such as swelling in the legs, face, kidney colic, urinary tract infection, dark, foamy or bloody urine may be related to kidney problems and should be analyzed.
If clinical examinations make sure that the kidneys are not working properly and can no longer filter the body's dirt, transplantation and hemodialysis may be the alternative.
To perform a transplant, you need to find a matching donor, which is not always easy and requires most patients to undergo hemodialysis, a process in which a machine performs the filtration process.
However, some simple measures can help preserve the health of your kidneys for a long time.
Drink water
Ingesting at least 2 liters of water a day helps to filter and purify the kidneys, as well as helping to eliminate salt. Those who drink little water, overload the kidneys affecting this filtration process.
Control the weight
Overweight also causes the kidneys, as well as every organ in the body to become overloaded, and can trigger hypertension and diabetes that damage the kidneys.
Eat well
A good diet, low in fat and rich in vitamins and fiber contributes to the preservation of kidney functions, especially the consumption of foods rich in vitamin K, present in lemon, broccoli, boldo, spinach, cauliflower and dark green leaves, which help prevent kidney stones and kidney stones from appearing.
Do not abuse alcohol
In small proportions, alcohol can have a duiretic function helping kidney work, but in excess, alcohol intake has the opposite effect and causes damage to the kidneys, in addition to favoring the development of problems such as hypertension and compromising liver health. .
Beware the cigarette
Not only is the lung harmed by cigarettes, it also affects the kidneys by forming small blockages in the tubes through which blood flows, contributing to the onset of pressure problems and kidney disease.
Do not abuse the medicines
Anyone who abuses the use of drugs, from controlled to a simple pain reliever can end up compromising the functioning of the kidneys in the long run, so avoid self-medication and do not abuse the drugs.
If you notice changes in your urine, excessive tiredness, swelling, and especially if you have problems such as high blood pressure and diabetes, or a family history, look for a specialist and take care of yourself.
Lifestyle Modifications to Improve Kidney Health - Nishant Patel, MD | UCLAMDCHAT (April 2024)
- Prevention and Treatment
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