Kidney disease is a condition where the kidneys, the organs that help filter waste from our blood, stop working properly. This can cause a build-up of harmful substances in the body, which can make you feel sick.
What Do Kidneys Do?
Kidneys have many important jobs, including:
- Filtering Blood: Removing waste and extra fluids.
- Balancing Minerals: Keeping the right levels of minerals like sodium and potassium.
- Blood Pressure Control: Helping regulate blood pressure.
- Making Red Blood Cells: Producing a hormone that tells the body to make red blood cells.
- Keeping Bones Healthy: Helping keep bones strong and healthy.
Causes of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease can happen for several reasons, including:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the kidneys over time.
- High Blood Pressure: Can cause harm to blood vessels in the kidneys.
- Infections: Some infections can affect the kidneys.
- Genetic Factors: Some people inherit conditions that affect their kidneys.
- Medications: Long-term use of certain medicines can hurt the kidneys.
Signs of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease often does not show symptoms in its early stages. As it gets worse, you might notice:
- Fatigue: Feeling very tired.
- Swelling: Especially in the feet and ankles.
- Changes in Urination: Such as needing to go more often or less often.
- Itchy Skin: Caused by waste build-up.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach.
- Shortness of Breath: Especially if fluid builds up in the lungs.
Managing Kidney Disease
While we can’t always fix kidney disease, there are ways to manage it and help slow its progression:
- Healthy Eating: Following a diet low in salt, potassium, and phosphorus.
- Regular Exercise: Helps maintain a healthy weight and lower blood pressure.
- Medications: To control blood pressure, blood sugar, and other conditions.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can worsen kidney problems.
- Regular Check-Ups: Keeping up with doctor visits to monitor kidney function.
Advanced Treatments
If kidney disease gets worse, there are treatments to help:
- Dialysis: A process that filters your blood when your kidneys can’t.
- Kidney Transplant: Replacing a damaged kidney with a healthy one from a donor.
Living with Kidney Disease
Living with kidney disease can be challenging, but many people lead full, active lives with the right care and lifestyle changes. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare team to find the best plan for you. Stay informed, follow your treatment plan, and take care of your overall health.
Remember, early detection and proper management are key to living well with kidney disease. If you have any symptoms or are at risk, talk to your doctor about getting tested.