Managing Kidney Health: Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Kidney health is an often-overlooked aspect of our overall well-being, but it’s crucial to pay attention to the early kidney disease symptoms before they escalate. According to the Indian Kidney Foundation, over 10% Indians suffers from chronic kidney disease (CKD), and a significant percentage of these individuals remain undiagnosed till the time the disease reaches an advanced stage, which makes the treatment complicated and more expensive. Recognizing symptoms early and following kidney health tips go a long way in preventing kidney damage.
Early Kidney Disease Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
The kidneys filter out waste and maintain balance in the body. When they begin to fail, there are several early signs to look out for- identifying these symptoms timely can make a huge difference in slowing down kidney damage and managing the condition effectively.
1. Changes in Urination Patterns
- Frequent Urination, Especially at Night: If you find yourself visiting the bathroom more often, especially at night, this could be a sign of kidney problems.
- Foamy or Bloody Urine: Presence of foam or blood in the urine is a sign that your kidneys may be struggling to filter properly. Proteinuria, the presence of excess protein in the urine, often leads to foam formation and can indicate kidney damage.
- Decreased Urine Output: A sudden reduction in the amount of urine you produce, or difficulty urinating, should never be ignored.
2. Swelling in the Body
One of the most noticeable early kidney disease symptoms is swelling, especially in the legs, ankles, feet, or around the eyes. The kidneys help balance the body’s fluid levels, and when they do not function properly, fluid retention occurs.
3. Fatigue and Weakness
Chronic kidney disease can lead to the aggregation of waste products in the blood stream, causing fatigue and weakness. If you feel unusually tired, despite taking adequate rest, it could be a sign of an impaired kidney function.
4. Shortness of Breath
Fluid retention can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. If you experience breathing difficulties or feel out of breath even after light activity, it’s important to consult a doctor.
5. Persistent Back Pain
Chronic pain in the lower back, just under the rib cage, especially accompanied by any of the abovementioned symptoms, may indicate kidney issues.
Kidney Health Tips for Preventing Kidney Damage
1. Stay Hydrated for Kidney Health
Proper hydration is essential for kidney function. Drinking 8 or more glasses of water helps your kidneys effectively flush out toxins and waste products.
2. Monitor Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar
High blood pressure and diabetes are two main causes of kidney disease. Regularly checking your bp and blood sugar levels, and keeping them under control, can help prevent kidney damage.
3. Follow a Kidney-Friendly Diet
A fibre-rich diet that includes ample fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports kidney health. Reducing sodium intake also helps lower blood pressure and eases the burden on the kidneys.
4. Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity helps control blood pressure and blood sugar levels, supports healthy weight, and improves circulation, all of which contribute to kidney health.
5. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking
Both alcohol and smoking can damage the kidneys over time. Reducing or eliminating these habits can significantly improve your kidney health and prevent long-term damage.
Kidney disease can often go undiagnosed until it’s too late, which is why recognizing the early kidney disease symptoms and taking preventive measures are essential. If you notice any signs such as changes in urination, swelling, fatigue, or proteinuria, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider. Early detection and management can help in preventing kidney damage and preserve kidney function for the long term.
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