Chronic Kidney Disease: The Silent Killer
Kidneys are vital organs.
Our kidneys help control our blood pressure, keep our bones healthy, produce hormones, and remove waste and extra fluid (which becomes our urine.) And although we can live with one functioning kidney, the loss of both kidneys leads to a rapid accumulation of waste and death within a few days time. A serious disease that can lead to this point is called Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD.) CKD affects 1 in 10 people worldwide and is incurable, causing patients to need lifelong care.
Who’s Prone to CKD?
2/3 of cases are due to diabetes and high blood pressure so if you suffer from any of the two, it’s important to get tested right away because high-risk groups include those with diabetes, hypertension as well as those who have a family history of kidney failure. Moreover, African Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, American Indians, and seniors are also groups that are at high risk for kidney failure.
Prevention
- Get tested–two tests can detect CKD: blood pressure, urine albumin and serum creatinine
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy diet that is low in sodium (salt) and sugar
- Limit alcohol intake
- Engage in healthy sleep habits (going to sleep at the same time and getting at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every day)
Treatment
- Medicine to lower blood pressure, control blood sugar and lower cholesterol
- If kidneys fail, a dialysis or a kidney transplant is needed
Tomorrow, on March 8 through the global awareness campaign World Kidney Day, hundreds of places across the globe will offer public screenings and create awareness of this deathly disease as well as provide preventable measures. Keep your family safe and informed by participating in local events and staying up to date with everyone’s health.