Kidneys have an important role in maintaining overall health and wellbeing.

Wondering how it contributes to your overall health? How does it play a vital function in our body?

We are here with answers for you. Through this blog, Karetrip will help you to explore various functions of the kidney which are necessary for survival.

Functions of Kidney

• Waste Removal: Filtration of waste products , excess fluids and toxins from blood to form urine is one of the primary functions of the kidney.

If there is any dysfunction in the kidney , waste materials get accumulated in the body which leads to a life threatening condition called uremia.

• Fluid and Electrolyte Balance: Regulation of body’s fluid balance by adjusting the amount of water excreted in the urine is done by kidneys.

They play a major role in maintaining electrolyte balance that includes sodium, potassium and calcium which is necessary for proper muscle and nerve function.

• Blood Pressure Regulation: The kidneys help regulate blood pressure by controlling the amount of fluid in the body and releasing hormones that regulate blood pressure.

Kidney dysfunction can lead to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

• Red Blood Cell Production: The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.

Red blood cells are essential for carrying oxygen to tissues and organs throughout the body. Kidney disease can lead to anaemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness.

• Bone Health: The kidneys play a role in maintaining healthy bones by producing an active form of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium from the diet.

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. Kidney dysfunction can lead to bone disease and an increased risk of fractures.

• Acid-Base Balance : The kidneys help regulate the body's acid-base balance by excreting hydrogen ions and reabsorbing bicarbonate ions.

This balance is essential for maintaining the body's pH level and proper functioning of enzymes and other biochemical processes.

• Toxin Removal : In addition to filtering waste products from the blood, the kidneys also help remove various toxins and drugs from the body.

Kidney dysfunction can impair this process, leading to the accumulation of harmful substances in the body.

Overall Wellbeing: Healthy kidneys are essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Kidney dysfunction can lead to a range of health problems, including fatigue, weakness, fluid retention, electrolyte imbalances, high blood pressure, anaemia, bone disease, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Around 15 percent of the human population gets affected by chronic kidney disease. About 4,50,000 people need renal transplantation in the US to live and around 1 ,00,000 people have been given a new chance at life. Nephrologists are shown referrals regarding signs of decline or there are worrisome signs like protein or blood in the urine.

Diabetes mellitus is one of the number one causes of kidney disease. There are many underlying reasons which are not understood.The high glucose can hurt the kidneys and cause thickening and damage. Diabetes can cause filtrate too much causing the proliferation of destructive enzymes. Better the diabetes is controlled , the better chance there is to preserve kidney function. If the diabetes is not controlled, protein is seen to be spilling into the urine.

Hypertension and Kidney Health

Second most common cause of chronic kidney disease is hypertension. In fact , 80% of people with chronic kidney disease have hypertension. There are many causes for hypertension.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

The most common symptoms exhibited by each person who has chronic kidney disease: BOX

• Recurrent headaches
• Weakness
• Itchiness all over the body
• Urine present in the Blood.
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Puffiness around the eyes and swelling of hands and feet
• Darkening of skin
• Pain or muscle cramps below the ribs.
• High blood pressure

Treating Kidney Disease

There are numerous treatment options available to control chronic kidney disease symptoms and complications from the disease. Some of them are: BOX

• Lowering the blood pressure
• Reducing the cholesterol
• Treating anaemia.
• Protection of bones.
• Relieving inflammation.

A lower protein diet is recommended by your doctor to minimise the waste products. Regular kidney checkups are necessary to see if the disease is progressing or not.

How to Manage Kidney Diseases

Through diagnosis and personalised treatment plans to ensure the patients’ wellbeing, management of the kidney becomes a multifaceted process. This approach includes different key elements :

• Initial Diagnosis : Urine Tests , Kidney biopsies and scans which helps to figure out the kidney damage and disease type can be done.This creates the right treatment plan.
• Treatment Plan Development: A combination of lifestyle modifications , medication management and surgical interventions which include the treatment plan.This plan is adjusted to an individual’s particular condition , needs and circumstances.
• Lifestyle Changes: Diet low in sodium, potassium and phosphorus and engaging in physical activity is suitable for an individual’s health.
• Medication Management: Follow the directions given by the physician to control the symptoms and solve the root cause of problems.
• Surgical Interventions: Kidney stone removal or other surgical intervention can be considered.
• Preventive Strategies: Implement preventive strategies to avoid further kidney damage. This includes managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, avoiding - substances that are harmful to the kidneys, and staying hydrated.

Avoiding the use of Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can cause damage to your kidneys if consumed for a long period of time.Smoking and intake of alcohol can also cause a severe damage to the kidneys.

FAQ

1.Which foods are good for kidney health ?

Ans : Foods rich in antioxidants such as berries , apple , plum , fish , kale , spinach etc. are good for the overall well being of the kidney.

2.Which foods do we need to avoid if we have kidney disease ?

Ans : Potatoes , Processed foods , Dairy products and Soft drinks and foods that contain high amounts of salt can adversely affect your renal health.

3.What Impact does Kidney Failure have ?

Ans : Kidney failure has a significant effect on overall health and well being. They have to cope up with additional stressful situations. Long term problems may include anxiety, stress and even problems with body image. It can also lead to loss of self confidence and even loss of sexual interest. Some people will find impairment in attention and concentration.