The kidney filters waste products, maintains electrolytes, and regulates blood pressure. Though silent in its development, kidney disease could become detrimental, especially if do not undergo early screening at an early stage of its manifestation.
Many people are unaware of some risk factors or symptoms of these diseases. Thus, most patients seek medical attention when they are already suffering from them.
The good news is that most kidney diseases are preventive and curable, or their progression slows down with proactive awareness and management. Therefore, this article will enlighten you on four common kidney diseases, their symptoms, and prevention strategies.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
CKD occurs when kidney function is lost over the years, eventually resulting in kidney failure unless it is under treatment.
- Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Changes in urine output
- Trouble concentrating
- Prevention:
- Maintenance of a healthy diet and active lifestyle
- Regular check-ups help detect issues immediately
- Monitor diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure
Kidney Stones
These are dense masses of minerals and salts that form within the kidneys. They can grow sore and annoying as they move down the urinary tract.
- Symptoms:
- Severe burning pain in the back or side
- Blood present in urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Urination becoming more frequent
- Prevention
- Hydrate plenty to avoid making kidney stones
- Have a healthy diet, low salt and animal protein
- Exercise regularly for healthy kidneys
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
This condition is often referred to as acute kidney injury. It is the sudden loss of kidney function with little or no warning. It can result from water loss (for example, dehydration) and, very occasionally, from some medications. Treatment may reverse this condition if a person starts promptly right after detection.
- Symptoms:
- Less urinary output
- Edema (swelling in the body)
- Weakness
- Disorientation
- Prevention:
- Drink a lot of fluids, significantly if not feeling well
- Consult with your doctor to avoid taking certain drugs
- Regular check-ups to monitor the health of your kidneys
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
PKD is a genetic disease in which cysts grow inside the kidneys. The proliferation of these cysts can provoke high blood pressure, and at worse, result in kidney failure.
- Symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- Pain on the back or side
- Frequent urination
- Kidney stones
- Prevention:
- If it has a strong genetic influence, managing high blood pressure and maintaining physical activity will keep the kidneys healthy.
- If it has a strong genetic influence, managing high blood pressure and maintaining physical activity will keep the kidneys healthy.
Tests for Kidney Functions
Tests for kidney function are vital for detecting kidney issues early, guiding treatment, and monitoring overall health. Healthcare providers will likely use two critical tests to check how the kidneys are functioning:
- Creatinine Test: This test measures the creatinine level in the blood. A high level may mean that the kidneys aren’t working as they should to filter out waste products, which may call for early intervention.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test checks for many different blood components. Abnormal results can indicate conditions affecting kidney function, such as infections and anemia.
Wrapping Up
One should know what’s behind them and their symptoms to prevent and treat common kidney diseases. Routine follow-up check-ups, hydration, and nutrition keep the kidneys active. Knowing all this and being proactive is what makes you a master of your kidney health. Learn about the problem, so be proactive and healthy.
