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Healthy kidneys perform several essential functions, including:
Regulating the body's fluid levels
Filtering wastes and toxins from the blood
Releasing a hormone that regulates blood pressure
Activating vitamin D to maintain healthy bones
Directing the production of red blood cells
Balancing blood minerals (sodium, phosphorus, potassium)
Kidney disease can lead to various health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, weak bones, nerve damage, kidney failure, and anemia.
Step 2: Assess Your Risk
Identify if you are at risk for kidney disease by considering the following factors:
Main Risk Factors:
Diabetes (personal or family history)
High blood pressure (personal or family history)
Heart disease (personal or family history)
Family history of kidney failure, diabetes, or high blood pressure
Obesity
Additional Risk Factors:
Age 60 or older
Low birth weight
Prolonged use of NSAIDs (painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen)
Lupus or other autoimmune disorders
Chronic urinary tract infections
Kidney stones
Step 3: Recognize Symptoms
Early kidney disease often presents no symptoms, making early detection critical. Pay attention to the following possible trouble signs:
Fatigue and weakness
Difficult or painful urination
Foamy urine
Pink or dark urine (blood in urine)
Increased thirst
Frequent urination (especially at night)
Puffy eyes
Swelling in the face, hands, abdomen, ankles, or feet
Step 4: Get Tested
If you belong to a high-risk group, discuss the following tests with your primary-care physician:
Blood pressure measurement
Blood sugar level monitoring
Kidney function tests