By Brittni Sunbury, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner of Scottsdale Recovery Center
National Kidney Month is the perfect time to make sure you’re taking care of your kidneys. Did you know that two in five adults with chronic kidney disease do not know they have it? These remarkable organs work tirelessly behind the scenes, diligently filtering out waste products and excess fluids from our bloodstreams, all to keep us in tip-top shape. As we celebrate, let’s not forget the pivotal role our kidneys play in ensuring not just our health, but our longevity too. According to the American Cancer Society, kidney cancer is one of the 10 most common cancers. However, this varies depending on other risk factors.
About chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Chronic kidney disease indicates ongoing damage to the kidneys, impairing their filtering function and other essential roles in the body such as maintaining bone health and regulating red blood cells. As kidney function declines, waste accumulates in the bloodstream. CKD is termed “chronic” because it progresses gradually over time, potentially leading to kidney failure, also known as end-stage kidney disease. While not all CKD cases progress to kidney failure, the condition typically worsens without intervention. Although there is no cure for CKD, various measures can slow its progression, including dialysis and kidney transplantation for end-stage kidney disease.
Can kidney cancer be prevented?
Kidney cancer often lacks a clearly identifiable cause, but there are steps you can take to mitigate your risk. Cutting back on alcohol, quitting smoking, and managing your weight are all effective strategies.
While moderate alcohol consumption may not directly harm kidney health for most people, it’s crucial to practice moderation in drinking habits.
In addition to reducing alcohol and tobacco intake, regular exercise plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. High blood pressure poses a significant risk to kidney health by damaging blood vessels. Incorporating physical activity into your routine can naturally lower blood pressure, alleviate strain on the kidneys and preserve their function.
Maintaining a healthy weight is another essential measure for preventing kidney disease. Excess weight can contribute to conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five times a week can boost metabolism and keep weight in check. It is also important to limit your sodium (salt) intake to less than 2300 mg per day (about one teaspoon of salt from all the food and drinks you consume each day). This recommendation is very important if you also have high blood pressure.
Consulting with a dietitian proves particularly beneficial if you’re managing additional health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or heart failure, as prioritizing a nutritious diet averts complications. Juggling multiple lifestyle adjustments can be daunting, but a dietitian can assist in pinpointing personalized strategies to fit your lifestyle.
What is the relationship between your kidneys and alcohol?
The kidneys serve as crucial filters for harmful substances in the bloodstream, including alcohol, which in excess can impair a kidney’s function and hinder blood filtration. Additionally, the organ plays a vital role in maintaining proper hydration levels in the body, an ability that alcohol can disrupt by inducing dehydration. Excessive alcohol consumption can elevate blood pressure, increasing the risk of hypertension, a leading cause of kidney disease. Moreover, alcohol can interfere with medications used to manage high blood pressure. Chronic alcohol abuse can also lead to liver disease, further burdening the kidneys as they work to maintain blood flow regulation. Notably, a significant portion of individuals in the United States with concurrent liver disease and kidney dysfunction are dependent on alcohol.
How is kidney disease diagnosed?
Anyone can develop CKD at any age. However, some people are at a higher risk than others. To diagnose kidney disease, your healthcare provider begins by taking your medical history, conducting a physical exam, and inquiring about any current medications and symptoms you’ve experienced. Blood and urine tests are then ordered to assess kidney function. Blood tests evaluate your glomerular filtration rate, indicating how efficiently your kidneys filter blood, and measure serum creatinine levels to gauge waste product removal. Elevated creatinine levels suggest reduced kidney function. Urine tests search for protein (albumin) and blood, both absent in healthy kidneys. Additional imaging tests like ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans may be used to examine kidney size and structure, while a kidney biopsy might be conducted to identify specific kidney diseases or determine the extent of kidney damage.
It is imperative to reflect on the significance of our kidneys and the importance of their health. These unsung heroes tirelessly filter out toxins and maintain our body’s equilibrium. Yet, kidney health is a vital component of overall well-being and longevity. With kidney cancer ranking among the top 10 most common cancers, it’s crucial to understand preventive measures such as adopting a healthy lifestyle and being aware of risk factors.
About Scottsdale Recovery Center
Since 2009, Scottsdale Recovery Center serves the needs of people locally and nationwide searching for a successful solution to remove active alcohol, opioid, cocaine and other addictions to enjoy the benefits of living drug-free. With four facilities in the greater Phoenix – Scottsdale area, SRC continues to set the standard of Detox, Inpatient, Residential, Intensive Outpatient, and Sober Living services. Scottsdale Recovery Center is a trusted resource, locally and nationally, to the public, health care providers, and media outlets seeking knowledge to support their investigations and bring addiction industry awareness needed to save lives. Visit Scottsdale Recovery Center for more information or call 1-888-NODRUGS.
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