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Our kidneys, the bean-shaped organs in the upper abdomen, are unsung heroes of our body's internal workings. They filter waste from our blood, help regulate blood pressure, and produce hormones important for red blood cell production. When our kidneys fail, these essential functions are disrupted, which can lead to serious health problems.
In this blog, you’ll learn what kidney failure is, how it happens, and the symptoms to watch out for. We will also discuss how to prevent kidney failure and available treatment options.
What Is Kidney Failure?
Kidney dysfunction/failure is a serious health hazard. Understanding the importance of detecting kidney dysfunction is critical to safeguarding our kidney health and overall quality of life.
Renal or kidney failure happens when the kidneys stop performing their prime function, which is adequately throwing out toxins and excess fluids from the blood. What happens, then? Our bodies become a storehouse of toxins and waste, which disrupts our critical biological functions.
What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Failure?
Recognising the symptoms of kidney failure is crucial in detecting the condition early at the best kidney stones hospital in Mysore. Some common signs include:
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Swelling: Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and around the eyes is often an indication of kidney dysfunction. This occurs due to the retention of fluids and sodium in the body.
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Changes in urination: Changes in urine output, such as decreased urine production, foamy urine, dark-coloured urine or blood in the urine, are serious indicators.
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Fatigue: The build-up of waste and toxins in the blood can lead to weakness and a general feeling of lethargy throughout the day, even when you have not been through any physical strain.
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Breathing issues: As kidney function declines, fluids accumulate in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing.
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High BP: Kidneys play a significant role in regulating blood pressure. Kidney failure can lead to uncontrolled hypertension.
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Anaemia: The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which helps in red blood cell production. Reduced kidney function can result in anaemia.
How Is Kidney Function Measured?
Several methods are employed to measure kidney function and identify potential dysfunction:
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Blood Tests: Blood tests like creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) help assess kidney function. Reduced kidney function can be indicated by the level of waste found in the blood test. A high level indicated reduced kidney function.
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Urine Tests: Urinalysis checks for protein, blood, or other abnormal components in the urine, which may suggest kidney problems.
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Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): GFR measures how efficiently the kidneys filter waste from the blood. A decreased GFR indicates reduced kidney function.
Why Is It Important to Detect Kidney Dysfunction at Early Stages?
Detecting kidney dysfunction is critical for several reasons:
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Preventing Irreversible Damage: Early detection allows timely intervention and treatment, potentially preventing irreversible kidney damage.
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Optimal Therapeutic Intervention: Early diagnosis enables healthcare professionals to implement targeted treatment plans, slowing the progression of kidney disease and improving overall outcomes.
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Quality of Life: The early management of kidney dysfunction can save you from a lengthy battle with health. You will not have to deal with the numerous medical interventions, which can be time-consuming and tiring.
Ways to Maintain Kidney Health
According to the nephrology expert in Mysore, taking proactive steps to maintain kidney health is essential. Here are some lifestyle changes that can make a difference:
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Healthy Diet: Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt, sugar, and processed foods to reduce kidney strain.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water to help your kidneys remove the toxins from your body. It is the best way to keep our bean-shaped organs healthy as well.
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Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise is good for the body, in general. Exercise can improve muscle function, lower cholesterol, and improve your sleep.
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Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking damages blood vessels in the kidneys, while alcohol consumption causes kidney damage. So, you must refrain from both of these activities.
Kidneys are indispensable organs. They play an extremely vital role in keeping us healthy. This is why early detection of kidney dysfunction is crucial for preserving its function. We can do this by understanding the symptoms of kidney failure, measuring kidney function regularly by getting the proper tests done, and making lifestyle changes to support kidney health. All of this is necessary because, in most cases, the presence of kidney disease comes to light very late. That's why early detection can help you avoid a dire medical emergency.
FAQs on Kidney Failure Detention and Treatment
Q1: How can I assess my kidney health at an early stage?
A: Regular health check-ups, including blood and urine tests, can help assess kidney function and detect abnormalities early on.
Q2: Can kidney dysfunction be reversed if detected early?
A: Yes, early detection can help in reversing the dysfunction through timely medical intervention.
Q3: Are there any specific risk factors associated with kidney disease?
A: Yes, risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of kidney disease, obesity, smoking and certain medication.
