Kidney Disease Prevention
Kidney disease affects people of all races and ages. About 30 million adult Americans have chronic kidney disease. Another 20 million are at risk for developing chronic kidney disease. Many don't even know it.
There are certain things you can do that will help keep your kidneys functioning well. A healthy lifestyle — including regular sleep and exercise — will help keep your whole body strong. Exercise also helps keep your blood pressure at a healthy rate. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for developing chronic kidney disease.
Suggestions for Maintaining Kidney Health
• Get regular checkups.
• Follow prescribed treatments to control diabetes and/or high blood pressure.
• Lose extra weight by following a healthy diet and regular exercise program.
• Avoid taking large amounts of over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or Advil.
• Limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
• Avoid all illegal drugs
• Avoid overusing prescription or over-the-counter drugs. If you are not sure what constitutes overuse, speak to your medical provider.
• Avoid a high-sodium diet. Eat less salt, less protein and less fat.
• Know your family health history.
• Take our quiz to see if you are at risk of developing kidney disease. Certain risk factors include your ethnicity, family history, weight and age.
If you think you are at risk of developing chronic kidney disease, have a kidney screening and talk with your doctor. Early detection leads to better outcomes.
Northwest Kidney Centers regularly offers community-wide free kidney screenings and events. For information on our screenings and events schedule, please contact us at 206-292-2771 or via email.