The kidneys are important organs with several important functions. Nearly a third of American adults are at risk of developing kidney disease. People who have been taking medications for a long time or suffering from diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure are at a greater risk of developing kidney disease. Unfortunately, even with kidney disease, symptoms can appear very late. Therefore, it is possible that irreversible damage has already occurred by the time the diagnosis is made, and there may be only two options: dialysis or a kidney transplant.
The kidneys control salt and water in the body and filter out various wastes and toxic substances from the body. It also maintains an appropriate balance of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, etc.) and regulates optimal blood pressure. Activates vitamin D to maintain healthy bones and healthy red blood cells in the body.
However, if you have a family history as well as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and heart disease, you can develop kidney disease. People with long-term use of certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), autoimmune diseases such as lupus and multiple myeloma, kidney stones, and chronic (long-term) urinary tract infections should also be cautious.
The risk of developing kidney disease varies from person to person. There are certain uncorrectable factors, such as age and genetics or a family history of kidney disease. However, there are things we can do to keep our kidneys healthy. Lifestyle changes, such as managing a healthy diet, are an area where you can. Let’s follow the 9 methods introduced by MedicineNet.
Drink 2 liters of water daily
Drinking plenty of water is important for maintaining healthy kidneys. In general, it is desirable to drink regarding 2 liters of water every day.
active movement
Regular physical activity protects the body from kidney disease and risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for kidney disease.
healthy diet
Eat fruits and vegetables and avoid processed and fatty foods. Limit your salt intake to 5-6 grams per day.
blood pressure check
Keep checking your blood pressure. Take appropriate medications and talk to your doctor to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
blood sugar control
Many people with diabetes are diagnosed late. If you have risk factors for diabetes, you should check your blood sugar regularly. Kidney damage due to diabetes can be prevented by controlling blood sugar.
no smoking
Both direct and secondhand smoke are bad for your kidneys. Smoking may also increase the risk of heart disease and kidney cancer.
Avoid long-term use of pain relievers
Long-term use of pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can damage the kidneys.
Regular checkups, if any risk factors exist
People with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and a family history of kidney disease should be screened regularly to prevent the development of kidney disease. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, get a urine protein or urine albuminuria test every 6 months.
Reporter Sejin Kim [email protected]
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