OUR kidneys filter half a cup of blood per minute to remove the body’s toxins, drugs, and excess water. They also remove the acid which our cells make to balance the water, minerals, and sodium in the blood. Our kidneys also make hormones to regulate blood pressure and vitamin D for strong bones. If our kidneys malfunction, the body’s muscles, nerves, and other tissues will be affected. According to experts, it usually takes 10 years before symptoms of kidney disease manifest themselves. Know the signs…
FEELING SICK. Because of toxins and impurities in the blood, one may suffer from headaches, nausea, fatigue, lack of energy, confusion, weakness, and discomfort. Another complication of kidney disease is anemia, a condition wherein the body doesn’t have enough healthy cells to fight fatigue.
INSOMNIA. Enough oxygen-rich blood finds it hard to reach the kidneys that affects the ability to sleep.
ITCHY SKIN. Our skin becomes dry and itchy when the kidneys can no longer balance the body’s minerals and nutrients. Skin rashes also develop that add to itchiness. This is a sign of mineral and bone disease as a result of kidney problem.
CRAMPS. Electrolyte imbalances may be happening because the kidneys cannot function as they should. Muscle cramps are also the result of low calcium levels.
WEIGHT LOSS. Because of the buildup of toxic compounds in the body, one lacks appetite. Reason for the drop of pounds. Add to this is the metallic taste of food that makes one lose interest to eat.
SHORTNESS OF BREATH. This is a result of the extra fluid in the body that builds up in the lungs. And if you suffer from anemia, the more you experience hard of breathing.
INFLAMMATION. Kidney disease can cause edema, a buildup of fluid in the body’s tissues, or swelling — in the face, hands, lower legs, ankles, feet.
ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION. Kidney problems can cause ED or impotence due to nerve damage, poor blood supply, hormonal issues, or medications.
URINE PROBLEMS. Foamy urine means the amount of acid is above normal. Nocturia, or peeing two or more times at night, may mean kidney stones are forming or diabetes. Blood in urine may mean infection, problem with blood cells, or cancer.
LOVE YOUR KIDNEYS: 1) Sleep 7 to 8 hours; 2) Exercise to maintain ideal weight; 3) Eat healthy; 4) Quit smoking; 5) Quit alcohol; 6) Manage stress; 7) Have a regular checkup; 8) Have a positive outlook in life.
(Sources: mnt, webmd, mayoclinic, kidney.org, johnshopkins, cdc.gov, nih.gov, national kidney foundation)
