More than 35 million adults in the U.S. have chronic kidney disease, and just a fraction of them even know it. And the number of cases is growing.
Kidneys are vital organs that filter waste from the blood and produce hormones. CKD is a form of kidney failure that, left untreated, allows toxins to build up in the body. And it can lead to other health problems like heart disease and stroke. It also can progress to end-stage renal disease, which requires dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant.
The key, doctors say, is prevention and early detection.
“Kidney disease is often called a silent disease because most people don't have any symptoms in the early stages," says Monnie Wasse, MD, chief of Nephrology at Rush. "In fact, many people with kidney disease don't even know they have it. That's why prevention and early detection are so critical."
Here are six tips to follow to help keep your kidneys healthy:
1. Know the signs and symptoms.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of kidney disease aren’t always noticeable, and 40% of people with severely reduced kidney function are not aware they have CKD. So it’s crucial to know whether you might be at risk.
Risk factors of CKD can include the following:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Age (60 and older)
- Family history of CKD
"Because kidney disease is so silent, screening is essential for people at higher risk," Wasse says. "If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney problems, or if you're over 60, you should be getting checked regularly. It only takes two simple tests: a blood test and a urine test. Don't wait for symptoms — ask your doctor about kidney screening at your next visit."
2. Maintain a healthy diet and weight.
Research shows that a kidney-friendly diet and regular exercise, may help protect your kidneys from the risk factors that can lead to kidney damage.
"When it comes to eating for kidney health, think more plants and less processed stuff," Wasse says. "Load up on fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and go easy on the salt. This kind of eating helps you avoid obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes — the biggest threats to your kidneys."
Incorporating exercise each day, such as walking, jogging and biking, as well as drinking plenty of water, can also keep your kidneys healthy.
"Getting regular exercise is just as important as what you eat," Wasse says. "Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. Staying active helps control your blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight."
If you need additional support, Wasse suggests working with a dietitian who can provide a kidney-healthy diet fit for your individual needs.
3. Monitor your diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol.
Other health problems are likely to cause problems in your kidneys. In the United States, diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney failure. And a study by the National Kidney Foundation found that people with high cholesterol are twice as likely to develop CKD.
“Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney failure," Wasse says. "Keeping your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in check is absolutely critical for your kidney health."
4. Don’t overuse over-the-counter drugs.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), a group of over-the-counter pain relievers that include ibuprofen and aspirin, may cause an increased risk of sudden kidney failure and progressive kidney damage.
"Be careful with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen," Wasse says. "They can hurt your kidneys, especially if you take them regularly. Talk to your doctor before using these medications long-term."
The National Kidney Foundation recommends limiting the use of these over-the-counter drugs to no more than 10 days for pain relief or more than three days for reducing a fever. If your pain or fever lasts longer, consult with a doctor.
5. Limit your alcohol intake.
Drinking too much alcohol can harm many parts of the body, including the kidneys.
The National Kidney Foundation warns that regular heavy drinking affects the kidneys and their function and doubles the risk for kidney disease. Consuming more than three drinks a day for women and more than four drinks a day for men is considered heavy drinking, according to the foundation.
6. Quit smoking.
Smoking tobacco slows the blood flow to important organs, such as the kidneys, and can increase the risk for kidney disease. Smoking can also make medications used to treat high blood pressure less effective, and if poorly controlled, can lead to kidney disease.
A study found that a group of participants who went through a smoking cessation program saw less of a decline in their kidney function when compared to a group of active smoker participants.
Although quitting smoking for good can be a challenge, a smoking cessation program can help. When you are ready, talk to your primary care provider, who can provide a referral as you work to maintain the health of your kidneys.
