Chronic kidney disease is not an uncommon condition. In fact, kidneys are the most transplanted organ. This goes to show that kidney disease are a concern for many. The trouble with a kidney condition is that it can spiral into several other associated diseases like diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, or vice versa. For this reason, taking steps to naturally maintain the health of your kidneys is important. Below are a few rules to follow to keep your kidneys healthy.
Drink lots of water
Kidney diseases such as nephrolithiasis or what we commonly call kidney stones, are associated to low hydration status. Daily water intake for individuals depends on their body weight. Determine how much water you should consume daily, and ensure to do just that. However, overhydrating can also cause problems like electrolyte imbalance, so beware to drink only as much as your body needs.
Manage and monitor your blood sugar levels
High blood sugar and diabetes have been recognised as the leading cause of kidney disease. Therefore it is essential to manage blood sugar levels through nutritional practices, and exercise. This will also help manage weight and reduce risk of kidney disease.
Keep your blood pressure in check
People with hypertension have higher likelihood of being diagnosed with kidney damage as well. Early detection of any heart related condition will help you address it soon, and potentially avoid kidney damage. Today blood pressure can easily be managed with medications and lifestyle improvements.
Avoid smoking and drinking
Smoking will reduce blood flow to the kidneys and damage blood vessels. Additionally, smokers have a 50% greater risk of developing kidney cancer. With regards to alcohol, kidneys are responsible for purification of the blood. When alcohol consumption is high, the kidneys come under a lot of pressure, and may be subject to damage.
Beware of over-the-counter medications
As mentioned above, the kidneys have the function of filtering the blood. Overuse or misuse of over-the-counter medications like pain killers can add a lot of pressure on the kidneys. This isn’t to say that all medications are harmful, but that they should be used carefully, or under guidance from a medical professional.
Several factors can be the cause of kidney disease, like genetics, diabetes, hypertension, lifestyle choices, quality or food, obesity etc. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential in retarding the progression of such a disease. However, diagnostic tests and treatments like dialysis, or transplants are unaffordable by most. For such people using crowdfunding India for medical expenses may come as a boon.
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