Taking Care of Our Kidneys!
Many AMM patients suffer from kidney disease due to diabetes and hypertension.
Did you know that your kidneys play an important role in your overall health? Despite their
modest size, these bean-shaped organs are critical for waste removal, fluid balance, and overall
health maintenance. However, kidney disease often remains unrecognized because symptoms
appear gradually over time. That is why National Kidney Awareness Month, which occurs in
March, is such an essential time to learn more about kidney health, raise awareness about the
dangers of renal disease, and explore prevention methods.
What is the National Kidney Awareness Month?
National Kidney Awareness Month is an annual event in March that raises awareness about
kidney disease and encourages everyone to make proactive efforts to preserve their kidney’s
health. It is a month dedicated to educating the public about the significance of kidney function,
the hazards connected with kidney disease, and how to treat or prevent disorders of the kidneys.
Kidney disease affects millions of individuals worldwide, yet it is frequently left undiagnosed
until it has progressed to a more advanced level. The goal of raising awareness is to encourage
people to have themselves tested, adopt healthier practices, and eliminate the risk factors that can lead to kidney impairment.
Background on Kidney Disease.
The kidneys are essential organs located in the lower back. Their major function is to filter
blood, remove waste, regulate fluid levels, and balance electrolyte levels like sodium and
potassium. Every day, our kidneys filter over 50 gallons of blood, removing approximately two
quarts of waste and extra fluid from the body. They also help regulate blood pressure, produce
red blood cells, and maintain bone health.
Kidney disease, commonly known as chronic kidney disease (CKD), develops when the
kidneys lose their ability to operate normally. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and hereditary
disorders are all potential causes of the illness. When kidney function declines, waste and toxins
can accumulate in the body, leading to additional health issues.
Risk Factors for Kidney Diseases
Several factors can raise your risk of having kidney disease, including:
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood arteries in the kidneys, resulting in
impaired kidney function.
High blood pressure places additional strain on the kidneys and can damage blood vessels,
resulting in kidney damage over time.
Family History: If you have a history of kidney illness, you may be more likely to acquire it
yourself.
Age: The risk of kidney disease increases with age, especially if you have hypertension or
diabetes.
Individuals with cardiovascular diseases may be more likely to develop renal disease, as both
conditions are related to risk factors such as high blood pressure.
Preventing Kidney Disease: Living a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of kidney
disease, which can also be inherited. Here are some useful recommendations for keeping your
kidneys in great shape:
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is critical for kidney health. Water helps the kidneys eliminate poisons and waste. Aim to drink 6-8 glasses of water every day, though
this may vary based on your body's demands and activity levels.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet can help reduce your risk of renal
disease. Consume fresh fruits, veggies, entire grains, and lean proteins. Reduce your
consumption of sodium, processed meals, and sugary drinks.
Manage Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a major cause of kidney disease. Check
your blood pressure regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly
to keep it within normal limits.
Control Blood Sugar Levels: If you have diabetes, you must keep your blood sugar
levels under control to preserve your kidneys. Follow your provider's recommendations
for regulating blood sugar with food, medication, and exercise.
Regular exercise helps to control blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight, all of which
are key factors in kidney health. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of
the week.
Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the kidneys,
raising the risk of kidney disease. If you smoke, get help quitting as part of a healthy
lifestyle.
Limit Alcohol use: Excessive alcohol use can raise the risk of high blood pressure and
liver disease, both of which can harm kidney health. If you drink, do so with moderation.
Get Regular Kidney Screenings: Because kidney disease sometimes develops without
obvious symptoms, it's critical to have regular kidney function testing if you have risk
factors such as diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. Early
detection can make a significant difference.
Why Is it Important to Increase Awareness?
Kidney disease is known as a "silent disease" because it does not produce noticeable
symptoms until it has advanced to a more severe state. The purpose of National Kidney
Awareness Month is to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health, the
symptoms of kidney disease, and how to avoid it.
If you have risk factors, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, take proactive steps to
manage your health. By raising awareness and taking preventive measures, we can reduce
the prevalence of kidney disease and improve the lives of millions of people worldwide.
FUN FACTS!
❖ Your kidneys have approximately one million microscopic filters called nephrons. They
assist in filtering the blood that flows through them and keep the body in balance!
❖ Did you know that the kidneys are the only organs capable of regeneration? Healthy
kidney tissue can mend itself as long as it still retains some kidney function. However,
when kidney disease progresses to the point of failure, a transplant or dialysis may be
required.
❖ Your kidneys work constantly to keep you healthy, without you even recognizing it! They
remove waste, manage fluids and electrolytes, and even create hormones that affect red
blood cell development and blood pressure.
