Kidneys in the human body are of utmost importance. They carry out the crucial functions of filtering waste and removing the toxic elements present in the body. Malfunctioning of the kidneys can cause severe diseases which can be fatal for us.
World kidney day is celebrated throughout the world to raise awareness amongst the people. Hundreds of events take place on this day across the globe. The aim of holding such events is to make people aware about preventive behavior, risk factors, and about how to live with kidney disease. On this day, we would like to give you a close look at the kidney problems and its prevention, so read on!
In CKD there is a gradual loss of kidney function over a period of months or years. In its early stage there are no symptoms, but later symptoms like leg swelling, feeling tired, vomiting, loss of appetite or confusion may occur. Complications may include heart diseases, high blood pressure, bone disease, or anemia.
Kidney failure can be caused by the build ups of waste products and excess fluid in the body. Common symptoms of this problem are a weakness, shortness of breath, lethargy, swelling, and confusion. Inability to remove potassium from the bloodstream may lead to abnormal heart rhythms and sudden deaths.
PKD is a genetic disorder in which genetic tubules becomes structurally abnormal which can lead to the development and growth of multiple cysts within the kidney. These cysts may start to develop during utero, infancy, childhood or adulthood.
KSD is also known as urolithiasis. It is caused when a solid piece of material occurs in the urinary tract. Kidney stone typically forms in the kidney and leaves the body in the urinary stream. A small stone may pass through the urinary stream without causing symptoms.
As per experts, these symptoms are very common & you may experience them even if you have any other disease. So, to get to the root of the problem you must consult a doctor.
You should eat foods that help in preventing kidney diseases and are healthy for your heart as well as the entire body. Such foods include fresh or frozen vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Eating healthy meals, cutting on salt as well as added sugar is also recommended.
Doing the physical activities for around 30 minutes every day makes you fit and less prone to falling prey to various diseases. Hence, don’t forget to exercise and do other physical activities every day. Your health care advisor may also suggest you the right activities.
Along with eating right and being physically active, you should have a healthy weight. It is suggested as overweight or obese people are more prone to develop a kidney problem. Following a healthy diet under the supervision of a health care provider is needed to achieve a healthy weight.
Sleeping for 7 to 8 hours is what you can all as ‘ideal sleep’. If you find it tough to fall asleep, then learn the techniques to fall asleep from an expert. As stress hinders physical as well as mental health, try to stay away from it – you can meditate and do yoga or tai chi.
Drinking too much alcohol increases the blood pressure and adds extra calories which can result in weight gain. So, you must limit your alcohol intake. Also, you should avoid smoking and using other tobacco products as these can also lead to kidney problems.
Also, you should manage your diabetes, blood pressure and heart disease well to prevent kidney diseases. If you seek kidney disease treatment or have some questions related to it, then you can book an appointment with our Sr. Consultant Dr. Reetesh Sharma