B.A.F.F.L.E.D. Health
How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy-
March is National Kidney Month. This month, the National Kidney Foundation is working to make sure you know the ins and outs of kidney health and how to keep your kidney in top condition.
Over 26 million Americans suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease, with about 83,000 patients awaiting transplants. Kidney conditions have a greater impact on minority groups of the population, because of their unfortunate link to Diabetes and high blood pressure. However this does not limit the condition to these groups. Kidney disease can impact anyone.
What do they do?
Kidneys regulate the body's salt, potassium, and acid content, while also removing waste. The stress of the organs is major--they have a big job. They also produces hormones for other organs, controlling blood pressure and calcium metabolism.
Warning signs of kidney disease include, but are not limited to:
And...
For more information on early detection, check out the Kidney Early Evaluation Program.
If you are interested or in need of transplant information, consult the United Network for Organ Sharing.
Remember kidney health is important to us all, so be sure to do what you can to keep yours in the best condition.
March is National Kidney Month. This month, the National Kidney Foundation is working to make sure you know the ins and outs of kidney health and how to keep your kidney in top condition.
What do they do?
Kidneys regulate the body's salt, potassium, and acid content, while also removing waste. The stress of the organs is major--they have a big job. They also produces hormones for other organs, controlling blood pressure and calcium metabolism.
Warning signs of kidney disease include, but are not limited to:
- High blood pressure.
- Blood and/or protein in the urine.
- A creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) blood test, outside the normal range. BUN and creatinine are waste that build up in the blood when kidney function is compromised.
- A glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 60. GFR is a measure of kidney function. See your doctor to get a better understanding of this one.
- Frequent urination, particularly at night; It can also be difficult or painful.
- Puffiness around eyes, swelling of hands and feet.
- Serious fatigue.
And...
For more information on early detection, check out the Kidney Early Evaluation Program.
If you are interested or in need of transplant information, consult the United Network for Organ Sharing.
Remember kidney health is important to us all, so be sure to do what you can to keep yours in the best condition.