Lowering the Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease

Are you someone who has had diabetes for more than 10 years? It is time for you to get your kidneys evaluated. Diabetes is now becoming the most common cause of chronic kidney disease, which was often called End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in the past. Many people have an undetermined cause for kidney disease.

Environmental factors have been postulated to be its cause. With the change in lifestyle, kidney disease is spreading to more and more people. A population-based study calculated that in India, the dialysis population is growing at the rate of 10–20 per cent annually.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease? 

Kidney disease means that the kidneys are damaged and can’t filter blood like they should. This damage can cause wastes to build up in the body. It also can cause other problems that can harm your health. The term ‘chronic’ indicates the irreversibility to the normal state, which is opposed to ‘acute kidney injury’, which is a temporary phenomenon.

If kidney disease is not treated, it can lead to ESRD. This means the kidneys stop working. Once the kidneys fail, you will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain health.

Kidney disease is most often caused by diabetes or high blood pressure, which usually occurs progressively at a slow pace over the years, but there can be some people who have rapid deterioration of renal function. Systemic diseases affect both kidneys at the same time, which leads to low functional reserve.

Chronic Kidney Disease Risk Factors

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) poses a significant health risk, but understanding its causes and taking proactive steps to manage them can significantly reduce the likelihood of its development. CKD risk factors can be divided into two categories: non-modifiable and modifiable.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

Age, genetics, race, and ethnicity can all play a role in determining one's susceptibility to CKD. While some of these factors cannot be changed, understanding their impact is crucial:

• Age: As people age, the risk of CKD naturally increases, particularly in those over 60, as ageing kidneys undergo structural and functional changes that can contribute to CKD development.
• Genetics: A family history of kidney disease can predispose individuals to CKD, especially in cases of hereditary conditions like polycystic kidney disease.
• Race and Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans, face a higher risk due to a greater susceptibility to conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which are major Chronic kidney disease risk factors.

Modifiable Risk Factors

Many CKD risk factors are within our control. By addressing these factors, one can significantly reduce the likelihood of CKD:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): High blood pressure, if left unmanaged, can lead to kidney damage. 
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes is a significant risk factor for CKD. 
• Lifestyle changes for kidney disease: It's important to keep track of your weight and maintain a balanced diet.
• Smoking: Smoking not only increases the risk of hypertension and diabetes but also directly harms kidney function. 
• Obesity: Excess body weight is linked to diabetes and hypertension, both of which increase CKD risk. 
• High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to atherosclerosis, reducing blood flow to the kidneys. 
• Diet and Nutrition: A balanced and low-sodium diet can protect against CKD by preventing conditions like hypertension and obesity. 
• Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Reducing or eliminating excessive alcohol consumption and substance abuse can significantly lower CKD risk. 
• Medication Use: Overusing non-prescription pain relievers, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can damage the kidneys.

Read more - Know your Kidney!

How Do I Know If I Have Kidney Disease?

Early kidney disease often presents with no noticeable signs or symptoms, making it imperative to rely on blood and urine tests for diagnosis. In addition, kidney ultrasound can aid in assessing kidney size and positioning. Symptoms typically manifest in the later stages of chronic kidney disease, including nausea, decreased appetite, swelling in various body parts, and occasional changes in behaviour. Preventive measures for chronic kidney disease are crucial in maintaining kidney health.

What If I Have Chronic Kidney Disease? 

Early detection through specific diagnostic tests is crucial for slowing or stopping chronic kidney disease from progressing to its end stage. If diagnostic tests indicate the presence of kidney disease, consulting with the best urologist or nephrologist in Delhi or elsewhere is essential. They can recommend appropriate medications and provide guidance on managing blood sugar and maintaining blood pressure within the target range, effectively aiding in the delay or prevention of kidnex`y failure.

Read more - Kidney Failure: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Management

What Can I Do to Keep My Kidneys Healthy?

Maintaining kidney health is of paramount importance for your overall well-being. Your kidneys are vital in filtering toxins and waste from the body, making it essential to take proactive steps to protect their function. 

Here are the essential steps to safeguard your kidney health:

Staying Hydrated

Adequate hydration is crucial for supporting the kidneys in the detoxification process. It helps flush toxins and waste products from the system. It's important to ensure appropriate water intake but avoid excessive consumption, as it can strain the kidneys.

Managing Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can wreak havoc on the delicate blood vessels within the kidneys. Regularly monitoring your blood pressure and working closely with a healthcare provider is essential to keep it within a healthy range.

Controlling Blood Sugar

For individuals with diabetes, strict control over blood sugar levels is imperative. Elevated blood sugar can gradually damage kidney function over time.

Adopting a Balanced Diet

The body should be nourished with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reducing sodium intake can also help minimise the risk of hypertension. Processed and high-sugar foods should be avoided to support kidney health.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a significant risk factor for kidney disease. Achieving and sustaining a healthy weight through a well-balanced diet and regular physical exercise is recommended.

Exercising Regularly

Physical activity boosts overall health and lowers the risk of kidney disease. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.

Limiting Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can be detrimental to the kidneys. Moderation or abstinence is advisable to protect kidney health.

Not Smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and directly impacts kidney function. Quitting smoking can have a profound and positive effect on kidney health.

Managing Medications

Adherence to a healthcare provider's instructions when taking medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers, is essential. Some medications, if overused, can harm the kidneys.

Avoiding Excessive Protein

While protein is essential, excessive consumption can strain the kidneys. Adjusting protein intake according to specific dietary needs and consulting with a dietitian, if necessary, is recommended.

Practising Safe Hygiene

To prevent urinary tract infections, it's important to maintain proper hygiene practices and ensure you stay well-hydrated. Promptly treating any infections is crucial to prevent potential kidney damage.

Limiting Caffeine

High caffeine intake may raise blood pressure and strain the kidneys. Consuming caffeine in moderation is advisable to safeguard kidney health.

What Diet Should I Take?

When it comes to kidney health, making informed dietary choices is essential. Here are some important guidelines to consider:

• High-Sodium Foods: Excessive sodium (salt) intake can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure, both of which are detrimental to kidney health. It's advisable to avoid processed foods, canned soups, fast food, and high-sodium seasoning. The degree of sodium restriction may, however, vary depending on your specific condition, which is why you need to consult your healthcare provider or dietitian for personalised recommendations.
• High-Potassium Foods: Individuals with CKD often need to limit their potassium intake, as impaired kidney function can lead to potassium buildup in the bloodstream. Elevated potassium levels can have serious health implications, including heart problems. Foods like bananas, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, and spinach are high in potassium and should be limited or avoided, depending on your healthcare provider's advice.

Chronic Kidney Disease Diet Food List

To promote kidney health, consider the following food choices:

• Low-Potassium Fruits: Opt for low-potassium fruits such as apples, berries, grapes, and peaches. While these fruits are generally kidney-friendly, portion control remains important, so consult with your healthcare provider or dietitian to determine the right amount for your dietary plan.
• Low-Potassium Vegetables: Include kidney-friendly vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, green beans, and cauliflower in your diet. These choices provide essential nutrients without excess potassium.
• Lean Proteins: Choose lean sources of protein, such as chicken, turkey, fish, and egg whites. These options are lower in phosphorus, which can be a concern for individuals with CKD. Red meat and processed meats should be consumed in moderation or as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Low-Phosphorus Grains: Consider grains like white rice, white bread, and pasta, as they are lower in phosphorus. Managing phosphorus intake is crucial for individuals with advanced CKD, so consult your healthcare provider or dietitian for personalised guidance.
• Dairy Alternatives: If recommended by your dietitian, explore dairy alternatives like almond milk or rice milk. These options can be beneficial for individuals who need to limit phosphorus and potassium intake. However, it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's guidance when making significant dietary changes.
• Healthy Fats: Incorporate healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts in moderation into your diet. These fats provide essential nutrients without placing undue stress on your kidneys.
• Limited Fluids: Depending on your specific condition and your healthcare provider's advice, you may need to limit fluid intake to avoid fluid build-up. This is especially important if you're on dialysis. Monitor your urine output and consult your healthcare provider for guidance on fluid restrictions tailored to your needs.

The Road Ahead. Is There a Hope?

Kidney disease can be controlled and prevented if we understand the circumstances and risk factors which predispose to it. This goes a long way in preventing a patient from ending up on dialysis or requiring a kidney transplant. A kidney patient, even if on dialysis or after a transplant, can lead a healthy life if adequate measures are taken.