Kidney health is no joking matter and should be taken seriously because of all the functions that these organs perform in the body. Their duties are critical to overall health and wellbeing. Some patients at a high risk of kidney failure include diabetics, hypertensive people, and those with cardiovascular issues. Kidney failure is when your kidneys lose more than 90 percent of their function and can be one of two types, acute kidney failure or chronic kidney failure. You can learn what to look for at the onset of kidney failure and how to prevent it from happening in the first place. Visit AFC Urgent Care Waltham for any general health questions, including all primary health.

Ways to Prevent Kidney Failure

Manage Your Diabetes & Blood Pressure

Diabetes increases the risk of developing kidney failure and should be carefully managed. Protect your kidneys from damage by maintaining optimal blood glucose numbers. Perform routine blood sugar checks, or as needed or recommended by your doctor, to know if you are close to your intended goal. 

Keep your blood pressure numbers at or close to what your doctor sets as your goal. Be sure to listen to all specific recommendations from your doctor, including taking medications as prescribed. 

Get your Heart Disease Under Control

Managing your hypertension can help with your heart disease. You want to prevent heart attacks and stroke, and one way to do this is to keep your cholesterol levels in your goal range. Bad cholesterol (LDL) can accumulate and clog your blood vessels and possibly cause a stroke or a heart attack or stroke. Get your cholesterol checked when the time comes around, annually or otherwise.

Eat a Healthy Nutrient-rich Diet

Make healthy food choices that are good for your heart and your body overall. Limit sodium that can worsen hypertension and reduce simple sugars that can raise blood sugar levels since both conditions can impact kidney health. Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products that are fat-free or low-fat, and whole grains. Fuel your body with a healthy, nutritious meal that supports proper kidney function.

Add Exercise to Your Daily Routine

Exercise plays a crucial role in managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which are not good for your kidney’s health. Try and be active for 30 minutes a day. Before starting a workout program, consult with your doctor about the exercises that are best suited for you if you have underlying health issues. Whether it’s swimming or walking, adding exercise to your daily activities is essential for both kidney and overall health.

Early Signs of Kidney Failure

According to Healthline, during the early stages of kidney failure, there are usually no symptoms. However, when kidneys fail, certain changes occur in the body, such as fluid and waste accumulation. The symptoms of kidney failure will manifest when the changes occur and may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion and difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue and weakness(asthenia)
• Swelling in the body beginning in the ankles and legs
• Reduced urine output
• Muscle cramping and twitching
• Itching
• Shortness of breath caused by fluid buildup in your lungs

Check with your physician and get a proper evaluation if you suspect that you may have kidney disease. You can slow the progression of kidney disease and failure if you get an early diagnosis. Protect your quality of life, prevent kidney failure with preventive health measures, and know what signs to look out for.