Key reasons to consult a Nephrologist and Protect your kidney health

Feeling a sharp, sudden pain on the side of your abdomen? Experiencing persistent swelling in your legs or ankles? Noticing a drop in how much you’re urinating lately? These could be signs that your kidneys need some attention. It might be time to see a nephrologist because these are symptoms of kidney stones and reduced kidney functioning. Don’t ever ignore these symptoms; your kidneys are vital for keeping your body healthy!

Why should you see a nephrologist?

Nephrology refers to the branch of medicine that focuses on kidney-related conditions. Kidneys work as the body’s natural filters by cleaning out waste and extra fluids from your blood. When something goes wrong with these filters, nephrologists—the kidney specialists—step in to figure out what’s happening and how to fix it. They deal with a range of kidney-related issues. For example, kidney stones are hard deposits that form in your kidneys and can cause severe pain when they move through your urinary tract. Kidney infections can be life-threatening if they spread, so they need quick treatment. Chronic kidney disease is when your kidneys slowly stop working over time, and if left untreated, it could lead to more serious health problems.

But nephrology isn’t only about the kidneys. Since your kidneys are deeply connected to your heart and blood, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are also on a nephrologist’s radar and could be a reason for concern. These issues can affect your kidneys over time if they’re not managed well, and can lead to major health concerns.

What diseases does nephrology treat?

Nephrologists don’t just address underlying conditions; they also help you prevent them from getting worse. They might ask you to make changes to your diet, recommend lifestyle changes, or prescribe medications to keep your kidneys in excellent health. So, if you’re experiencing symptoms like swelling, tiredness, loss of appetite or changes in your bathroom habits, seeing a nephrologist could be a great decision. They’re experts at keeping your body’s filtration system running smoothly.

Being such a vital organ in maintaining overall health, the kidneys can still be affected by several common conditions. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition where kidney function deteriorates over time, often without any immediate symptoms. Most patients find out they have CKD only after their kidney function has dropped significantly and their creatinine levels are high. Kidney stones, can cause severe pain as they pass through the urinary tract or if they get stuck in narrow areas. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) occurs suddenly due to factors like trauma or infection, requiring immediate medical attention to prevent any serious damage. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) involves the formation of multiple cysts in the kidneys, which can decrease their function over time. Early detection and management of these conditions are extremely important for maintaining kidney health and preventing further complications.

Which foods should you avoid to maintain optimal kidney health?

According to a recent health survey in India, over 7.8 million people are battling kidney disease. So it becomes very important for all of us, especially those with kidney conditions, to keep track of our diet and avoid certain foods that aren’t considered the best options when it comes to kidney health. A kidney-friendly diet, also known as a renal diet, is designed to help reduce toxins in the body and protect the kidneys from further damage. It is suggested to limit foods that are high in salt, potassium, and phosphorus. The CKD diet food list includes certain fruits and vegetables, that are high in vitamins and minerals but it’s not a one-size-fits-all list. Some fruits and vegetables can be harmful to kidney health and are restricted for kidney patients. These restrictions are often due to the high content of potassium, phosphorus, or sodium, namely: Bananas
Dairy Products
Pickles
Potatoes
Tomatoes
Processed Food
Spinach
Cashew Nuts
Red Meat

There’s a major role of hydration too! Proper hydration helps your kidneys effectively filter waste from your blood and maintain a balanced fluid level in your body. One should aim for about 8 glasses of water a day. However, individual needs may differ. There is also a myth associated with Drinking water -that- “Drinking more water always improves kidney function.” While staying hydrated is important, overhydrating can also be problematic, especially for those with kidney issues. Since people with poor kidney function find it difficult to excrete fluid from their bodies, excess water gets stored, leading to severe swelling and posing a major threat to other organs as well. Hence, It’s important to balance water intake according to medical advice.

When it comes to choosing a treatment for kidney problems, there are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration. The most common among all the treatments is dialysis. It performs the necessary job of filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so effectively. This treatment is often advised when kidney function falls below a certain level, typically when only 10-15% of kidney function remains. For patients at end stage kidney problems, transplant could be the best option. Although patients’ overall health and the compatibility of the donor’s kidney are crucial factors in proceeding with the surgical process. Post-surgery, patients must take immunosuppressive medications to prevent their immune system from rejecting the new kidney. Medications also play a vital role in managing kidney conditions. They can help control symptoms, manage related health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes, and slow the progression of kidney disease. Common medications include blood pressure drugs, diuretics, and phosphate binders.

Final Thoughts

Kidney problems are increasing rapidly, making it important to stay conscious of your health. Regular monitoring through blood tests and scans is essential for early detection and management. Leading a balanced and healthy lifestyle is key to maintaining kidney health. If you’re facing any type of kidney issues, remember that solutions are available. Consult your nephrologist, follow their advice, and take preventive steps to reclaim your well-being!