According to statistics, approximately 1 in 7 adults suffer from chronic kidney disease. Notably, about 90% of kidney disease patients are unaware they have the condition.
Early-stage kidney disease often progresses silently, without obvious symptoms, so many cases are only detected when dialysis or kidney transplantation is required. Therefore, regular check-ups play a crucial role in early detection.
The following are five steps, according to the National Kidney Foundation 's guidelines, regarding kidney disease, its risks, and prevention.
People with kidney disease should control their blood pressure and blood sugar. Photo: AI
Step 1: You need to know the following.
First, it's important to understand everything related to the kidneys, including:
The five functions of the kidneys are: removing waste products and excess water from the body, helping maintain blood pressure, keeping bones healthy, helping to produce red blood cells, and balancing essential minerals in the body.
Seven problems that kidney disease can cause: kidney failure (end-stage renal disease), heart disease or stroke, high blood pressure, mineral and bone disorders, hyperkalemia, nerve damage, and anemia. High blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke can both be causes and consequences of kidney disease.
Step 2: Risk Assessment
The six main risk factors are: diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or heart failure (personal or family history), family history of kidney disease or kidney failure, personal history of acute kidney injury, and obesity.
Other risk factors include: being 60 years of age or older, low birth weight, prolonged abuse of painkillers, lupus or other autoimmune disorders, chronic urinary tract infections, and kidney stones.
Step 3: Recognize the symptoms
Most people with early-stage kidney disease are asymptomatic. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may have progressed. Pay attention to the following symptoms: fatigue, weakness, difficulty urinating, pain, foamy urine, pink or dark urine (containing blood), excessive thirst, frequent urination (especially at night), puffy eyes, swelling of the face, hands, abdomen, ankles, and feet, nausea, and difficulty concentrating, according to the National Kidney Foundation.
Step 4: Perform the test.
If you are in a high-risk group, request the following tests:
- Blood pressure.
- Urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR) : This indicator can provide an early sign of kidney disease.
- Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR): Measures the extent to which the kidneys filter blood.
Step 5: Maintain your health
People with kidney disease should: Lower high blood pressure, control blood sugar levels, reduce salt intake, avoid painkillers, consume protein in moderation, avoid foods high in potassium and phosphorus, and get an annual flu shot.
Everyone should do the following: Exercise regularly, control their weight, follow a balanced diet, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, drink enough water, monitor cholesterol levels, have annual health checkups, get necessary vaccinations, and know their family medical history.