March 8, 2019 | Prevention of Illness and Management of Chronic Conditions
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a growing public health issue, with an estimated 10% of the worldwide population affected by this condition. This lasting damage to the kidneys gets worse over time, especially without lifestyle changes and treatments to slow the disease. World Kidney Day is March 14th; this day is designated to spread information and knowledge about kidney health.
Your kidneys work hard to keep you alive each day. If the kidneys fail, then it is necessary to have a transplant or receive dialysis treatments several times a week. It is important to take good care of them, helping you maintain optimal health in all stages of life.
Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
In the beginning, you might not recognize that your kidneys are struggling. It is common for the symptoms to start slowly and get worse with time. When the symptoms are recognized, it might be that your kidneys are already severely damaged.
If your kidneys are struggling, common symptoms include:
- Muscle cramps
- Itching
- Reduced hunger
- Swelling in the ankles and feet
- Changes in urine output
- Difficulty catching your breath
- Trouble sleeping
- Vomiting and nausea
The best thing you can do is contact a doctor as soon as possible if you notice these symptoms.
Risk Factors for Kidney Disease
Genetics and age play a role in the development of kidney disease. For example, if you are over the age of 60 and have a family member with kidney disease, then your risk is high. Doctors have also found that other health issues increase the risk of CKD:
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
If you’ve been diagnosed with one or more of these conditions, don’t overlook the importance of managing the disease to keep your kidneys healthy. Lifestyle changes and proper treatment can improve overall health and have a positive impact on your kidney health as well.
Do you need help finding the right health resources and medical care? At Windward Life Care, we are working hard to ensure that you have the support needed to live a healthy lifestyle. Contact us to learn about the services that are available.