Simple measures to take control of your kidney health
Beware if you have risk factors
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Kidney failure / Dialysis / Kidney Transplantation in family members
Stroke / Heart attack / Heart failure
Smoking
Ethnic factors
Be watchful regarding the symptoms and signs
The previous chapters have dealt elaborately regarding the signs and symptoms which heralds the onset of kidney disease. The importance of a master health checkup in diagnosing kidney disease need not be overemphasised.
Take control of risk factors
Conventional risk factors like diabetes and hypertension should be under control all the time.
Don’t smoke
Smoking slows the flow of blood to your kidneys making it difficult for them to function normally. Smoking also increases your risk of developing kidney cancer.
Diet
No diet is poisonous to completely avoid them. Moderation is best when absolutely healthy. Take the advice of a renal dietitian and nephrologist right from the diagnosis of kidney disease.
Identify the real organic foods
It is proven that foods and drinking water contaminated with pesticides accelerate kidney disease. Take the effort to identify real organic pulses, cereals and vegetables and use them in your diet especially if you have certain risk factors. Many advocate a plant based diet for the same.
When do I see a Nephrologist?
If you have any one of the following
Congenital kidney ailment
Reduced GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate)
Proteinuria
Kidney stones
Acute and chronic kidney failure
As advised by your family physician
When you go for a Nephrology Consult…….
Write down the important questions you wish to ask.
Give details of your drug intake, duration and dose.
Go along with your previous laboratory reports.
Get the records of home blood pressure and blood sugar values.
Note your previous 24 hour urine output and inform the doctor.
Remember to tell about the new onset of symptoms.
Accept treatment with full confidence and clarity.
Keep your health records up to date.
When treatment decision for kidney disease has to be made
Ask your Nephrologist,
What are the options available?
Which treatment option will best suit me?
How can I improve my health with the current treatment plan?
