World Kidney Day: What are the common habits that can damage a kidney? What measures individuals should take for their benefit?

World Kidney Day is an occasion to reminisce on the importance of kidney health its contribution in our overall well-being. Kidneys serve as natural filters that cleanse the blood of waste and toxins, regulate blood pressure, produce hormones, and maintain electrolyte balance. Unfortunately, kidney disease can often remain silent in the early stages and reveal itself only after significant damage has occurred

Understanding Kidney Health:

Awareness and preventive measures are crucial in protecting the kidneys. Understanding the habits and lifestyle choices that can negatively impact these vital organs can help one to course correct and prevent ongoing damage.

Attention must be given to take care of your blood pressure, sugar levels, heart issues avoiding drugs or interventions that can worsen kidney function, and also timely consultation with your nephrologist.

Common Habits That Can Damage Kidneys:

Poor Hydration: Consuming not enough water can lead to the formation of kidney stones and affect proper kidney function.

Unhealthy diet: Excessive consumption of salt, sugar, processed foods, and high-protein diets can strain the kidneys and contribute to kidney disease.

Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Tobacco use and excessive alcohol intake can increase the risk of kidney disease and worsen existing conditions.

Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can contribute to obesity and hypertension, both of which are risk factors for kidney disease.

Ignoring Medical Conditions: Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, if left uncontrolled, can severely damage the kidneys over time.

Medications: Over the counter painkiller abuse is a common cause of damage to the kidneys. Certain antibiotics and other medications are to be taken with caution in people prone to/with preexisting renal disease. Always see a doctor before starting any medication regimen, for your safety and well-being, without exception.

Measures for Kidney Health:

Stay Hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to support kidney function and prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Maintain a Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting salt, sugar, and processed foods.

Exercise regularly: Engage in regular physical activity to promote overall health, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of kidney disease.

Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Quit smoking and moderate alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of kidney damage and improve overall health.

Manage Chronic Conditions: Take medications as prescribed, monitor blood sugar and blood pressure levels regularly, and follow the recommendations of a nephrologist to manage chronic diseases effectively.

On this World Kidney Day, let prevention and preemptive interventions be our mantra to protect our kidneys. Let us also resolve to spread awareness especially among the less informed/less privileged.

With this we can achieve the theme: Kidney Health for All – Advancing Equitable Access to Care and Optimal Medication Practice.

Article by:
Dr Mayur Prabhu, Senior Consultant – Nephrologist, KMC Hospital, Mangalore