Your kidneys work quietly in the background every day to keep you healthy. These two bean-shaped organs filter waste and extra fluid from your blood, balance electrolytes such as potassium, chloride and sodium, and produce hormones that help regulate blood pressure, red blood cell production and bone health.
Because kidneys are so efficient, early kidney disease often has no symptoms. That’s why prevention, regular checkups and knowing your risk factors are key.
“With early kidney disease, you’re not going to feel anything different,” said Kate Brady, ANPC, NP, MS a nephrology provider with CU Medicine. “But that doesn’t mean nothing is happening.”
Early Kidney Disease Can be Quiet
While kidney disease can be silent, there are symptoms to watch for when kidney function declines. Early warning signs can include fatigue, loss of appetite, a bad taste in your mouth, nausea, diarrhea and swelling from fluid retention.
When kidneys are failing, symptoms can be more pronounced and are often described as uremic, meaning they resemble a prolonged flu. Some people experience these symptoms for weeks and go to the emergency department thinking they have the flu.
How Kidney Function is Tested
A simple blood test, called a basic metabolic panel, can help detect kidney problems. The test measures potassium, chloride, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine.
Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle tissue. Healthy kidneys filter most creatinine from the blood, so high levels can be a sign of reduced kidney function.
When Kidney Disease Progresses
For some people, kidney disease worsens over time and may require kidney replacement therapy such as dialysis or a transplant. There are also medications available that can help protect kidney function and reduce protein in the urine.
Everyday Habits to Protect Your Kidneys
We asked NP Brady about everyday tips that can help you care for your kidneys. “Everything you can do to take care of your body is going to be important for your kidneys,” NP Brady said. “That includes what you eat, how active you are and how you manage chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.”
NP Brady recommends focusing on overall health to protect kidney function.
- Stay hydrated with water.
- Manage chronic health conditions.
- Eat a low-sodium diet.
- Limit nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, which can damage the kidneys when taken in large amounts.
- Be cautious with herbal supplements. Some can be harmful to the kidneys, especially in high doses.
NP Brady recommends telling your primary care provider when you are thinking of starting a new supplement protocol, especially if it consists of multiple herbal supplements.
“Patients are always welcome to visit someone like me who works in nephrology to help patients navigate their kidney health,” NP Brady said. “It’s important to know as much about your health as possible so you can be your own best advocate.”
Nephrology Care at CU Medicine
CU Medicine Nephrology – Lowry Specialty Care Center offers compassionate care for patients with kidney conditions, from early detection to advanced treatment options. If you have risk factors or notice changes in your health, talk to your primary care provider about kidney screening.
Call (720) 984-1916 to schedule an appointment or visit CU Medicine Nephrology – Lowry Specialty Care Center here to learn more.
