Taking Care of Your Kidneys

Your kidneys serve the important function of removing wastes and excess liquid from your blood. While they’re fairly strong and resilient by design, they can start to falter after continued neglect and abuse. If your kidneys aren’t performing properly, wastes and toxins can remain in your body, causing a number of issues.  

Additionally, damaged kidneys can lead to an increase in blood pressure which, in turn, is very bad for your heart. 

Unfortunately, kidney problems don’t often have immediate symptoms. By the time symptoms show, it can be difficult to undo the damage that’s been done. That’s why it’s in everyone’s best interest to take good care of their kidneys. 

The good news is, taking care of your kidneys is fairly straight forward and aligns with good overall personal care. You don’t need to do some strange kidney cleanse. Instead, try the following suggestions. 

Exercise and Diet 

The truth is, regular exercise is good for your entire body, including your kidneys. It helps your body better process the foods and liquids you consume, which can reduce the chances of kidney stones forming. Exercise also helps improve circulation and heart health, keeping your blood pressure at proper levels.  High blood pressure can strain and damage your kidneys over time. 

Also, when you exercise regularly, you’re likely to drink more water. Proper hydration is important for kidney function. That doesn’t mean drinking excessive amounts of water is going to negate any negative things you do to your kidneys. 

You need to maintain a balance, and that’s done through your diet. Make sure to watch out for foods high in sodium and saturated fat. Both of these can contribute to high blood pressure and put a strain on your kidneys. 

Don’t Smoke 

Want to significantly decrease your risk of kidney cancer and kidney disease? Quit smoking. Smoking not only causes problems for your lungs and heart, but it doubles the chances of developing kidney cancer.  

Read Labels on Supplements and Medicine  

While medications are designed to help you through various conditions, they often come with side effects, especially after prolonged use. Medication can be especially troublesome for your kidneys and your liver, as these organs are ultimately responsible for filtering the drugs out of your system. 

Be cautious when taking medications, even aspirin or ibuprofen. Don’t exceed the recommended dosage. Read the labels for potential warnings. And if you’re uncertain, don’t hesitate to ask a doctor. 

Check in with a Kidney Specialist 

If you’re experiencing symptoms relating to potential kidney issues, or you have a history of kidney problems in your family, you should seek out a medical professional. Nephrologists are doctors that specialize in kidney care and treatment.  

They’ll be able to check your current health and provide options and guidance for improving your situation. Should your kidneys fail, you’ll either have to go through weekly dialysis, or you’ll need a kidney transplant. 

For a kidney doctor in Springfield, Ohio, contact Advanced Nephrology and Hypertension today! We offer quick appointment scheduling, often same day. 

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