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Staying healthy during cold and flu season is extra important when you have chronic kidney disease (CKD). Your body has to work harder to fight infections, and some common cold medicines can be risky for your kidneys. Here’s a simple plan to protect yourself, feel better faster, and know when to call your care team. […]

The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and celebration — a season filled with family dinners, work parties, and endless trays of delicious food. It’s also a time when it’s easy to forget healthy habits, especially for those living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Between shopping, traveling, and juggling multiple gatherings, it can […]

Prediabetes is your body’s warning sign. It means your blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. Many people ignore it because they don’t feel sick, but prediabetes is already putting stress on your kidneys. The good news? It’s not too late. By taking action now, you can prevent diabetes, […]

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD). When blood sugar levels stay high, they can slowly damage your kidneys without obvious symptoms. The good news? By learning how diabetes and high blood pressure affect kidney function — and by making healthy choices — you can take steps to protect your […]

In our last article, we explained how everyday over-the-counter (OTC) medications can sometimes put extra stress on the kidneys. While being cautious with OTC products is important, the other side of the story is just as critical: prescription medications. For people living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), prescriptions are not just routine—they are the cornerstone […]

When you have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), managing your health goes beyond following a diet or keeping your blood pressure under control. Something as simple as taking an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, cold medicine, or herbal supplement can affect how your kidneys work. For many people, OTC medications feel harmless because they don’t require a […]

When it comes to your overall health, kidneys are like quiet heroes working behind the scenes. They might be small—about the size of a fist—but their impact on your body is massive. Learning how your kidneys work can help you stay healthy and spot early signs of problems. This guide breaks down kidney function in […]

Your kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining your overall health, but when they aren’t functioning properly, your body often gives warning signals. Recognizing these early symptoms can help you act quickly and seek medical advice before the situation worsens. This blog will guide you through the most common early signs of kidney disease, when […]

How to Stay Cool, Safe, and Kidney-Friendly Summer heat can be tough on everyone, but if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or are at risk for kidney problems, it’s especially important to stay properly hydrated. The good news? A few simple habits can make a big difference. In this article, we’ll share safe, kidney-friendly hydration […]

After more than 50 years of dedicated service, Dr. Dale Erickson is retiring from Renal Medicine Associates. As respected nephrologist, Dr. Erickson played a central role in building the largest nephrology practice in New Mexico. From his early days as a missionary doctor in Africa to deciding on UNMH for his medical residency and Nephrology […]