Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that are located below your ribs in your back. They are responsible for filtering waste products out of your blood and producing urine. Kidney disease is a condition that damages your kidneys and can impair their ability to function properly.
There are many different causes of kidney disease, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and chronic kidney infections. If you have kidney disease, you may not experience any symptoms at first. However, as the disease progresses, you may start to experience some of the following danger signs:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles
- Foamy or bloody urine
- Trouble sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Itching
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Kidney disease can be a serious condition, but early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent further damage to your kidneys.
Here are some additional things you can do to help protect your kidneys:
- Control your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
- Eat a healthy diet that is low in sodium and potassium.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Get regular exercise.
- Don’t smoke.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
If you have any risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it is important to have your kidneys checked regularly by your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent or delay the progression of kidney disease.
