It is important to stay alert to prevent these conditions from becoming more serious.
The kidneys, responsible for removing waste products and excess water from the body, often end up left out and not given the necessary prevention. Therefore, kidney problems tend to be discovered in advanced stages, reducing the chances of treatment.
Chronic kidney disease, for example, is a lesion that is characterized by being progressive and irreversible and can progress to renal replacement therapy: hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or transplantation. And data from the Brazilian Society of Nephrology (SBN) show that the number of people suffering from this problem is growing and that more than 140 are already on dialysis in Brazil.
Diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and smoking are some of the factors that increase the risk of this condition.
WHAT IS CREATININE?
Measuring levels of this substance is one way to evaluate a patient’s kidney function. This is because it is made up of a compound originating from creatine which is filtered and eliminated by the kidneys. Therefore, people with problems in this organ have high levels of creatinine.
“The patient should have an annual creatinine test. If he has comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes, this test should be repeated more frequently,” he says. Bruno Graçaplenanephrologist and technical manager of DaVita Monte Serrat.
BEWARE OF THE SIGNS
When it comes to kidney problems, it’s important to keep in mind that when they’re in their early stages, they don’t always generate symptoms. Therefore, the ideal is to pay more attention and, when you notice changes, seek medical attention.
Graçaplena lists ten discomforts that can indicate the presence of kidney complications:
- Recent or sudden hypertension;
- Urine flow changes;
- Swelling in the lower limbs and face;
- Change in the color and smell of urine;
- Insomnia;
- Presence of foam in the urine;
- Lack of appetite;
- Metallic taste in the mouth;
- Fatigue;
- Pressure in the belly when urinating.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR KIDNEYS
In addition to drinking plenty of water (of course), to keep the kidneys healthy and normal creatinine levels, it is essential to reduce salt consumption, control your weight, practice physical exercises, avoid over-the-counter drugs and monitor blood pressure.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
