Your Body's Unsung Heroes: Why Kidney Health Can't Wait

"Knowledge without action is wastefulness and action without knowledge is foolishness."  Al-Ghazali

I love learning; I think I’m a knowledge junkie, particularly when it comes to health and well-being.

Growing up without encyclopedias in our home, I had to go to the school or public library to learn about a subject not covered in my textbooks. Today, I’m baffled that endless health information is at our fingertips, yet most of us don’t use it—even when it could improve or save our lives.

Since my niece was diagnosed with acute kidney failure and started dialysis treatments, we’ve had time to talk. During our initial conversations before she left the hospital, I discovered she had no understanding of what had happened to her body or why it occurred. All she knew was that she had been dealing with high blood pressure for a few years, but she didn't understand the functions of the kidneys or their relationship to blood pressure.

I realized this was my opportunity to share some basic information with her and help others who may also be unaware, so here are some basic things we all should know about kidney disease:

·         The kidneys filter waste from the blood, regulate fluid balance, maintain electrolyte levels, produce hormones that regulate blood pressure, and facilitate red blood cell production.

·         Common risk factors for kidney disease are diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, a family history of kidney disease, and age-related decline in kidney function.

·         Symptoms of kidney disease may include fatigue, swelling in the legs or ankles, changes in urine color or frequency, nausea, and high blood pressure. However, kidney disease can often be asymptomatic in its early stages, so regular check-ups are essential.

·         Lifestyle changes that can prevent kidney disease are:  Maintaining a healthy diet low in sodium and processed foods;  staying hydrated; exercising regularly;  managing blood sugar and blood pressure; and avoiding smoking.

·         Dietary choices that are best for kidney health: Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and limiting salt.

·         If you are at high risk for developing kidney disease, checking your kidney function at least once a year is critical; you may need it more frequently based on your provider's advice.

·         Standard tests used to diagnose kidney disease include blood tests to measure creatinine levels, urine tests to check for protein and blood, and imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans to assess kidney structure.

·         One question often asked about kidney disease is whether it can be reversed. The answer is that early-stage kidney disease can sometimes be managed or slowed through lifestyle changes and medication; however, later stages often lead to irreversible damage requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.

While the heart gets the credit as being the most vital organ in the body, don’t underestimate these two bean-shaped organs located just behind your rib cage. Your kidneys may be the body's ultimate overachieving multitaskers that quietly keep everything running smoothly. They are so resilient that you can live an everyday life with just one.

Understanding the kidneys’ vital role in maintaining overall well-being is essential for everyone. And all you need to know is right at your fingertips. But here’s a word of caution when you’re searching for information: Always look for sources that are regularly updated, cite medical research, have medical professional oversight, and separate advertising from educational content.

I'll always be a student of learning; it's my nature. As I learn, I teach, and I'll share more information on chronic conditions in my upcoming Stress and Dis-ease Workshop. Visit www.myrtlerussell.com to secure your spot for this transformative event. Take action for your health today—whether for yourself or someone you care about. Don’t wait for a crisis; join us to learn strategies that could change—or save—lives.

Be informed; Be Well!

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