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 easy-to-understand terms, provides practical tips to maintain kidney health, and answers common patient questions. Whether you’re managing diabetes, at higher risk of kidney issues, or simply want to stay healthy, this guide is for you.
What Do Your Kidneys Do?
Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located in your lower back, just below your ribcage. Despite their size, they filter about 50 gallons of blood per day—enough to fill a large bathtub!
Here’s what they’re responsible for:
- Filtering Waste
Kidneys remove waste products and toxins from your blood. These waste substances, along with excess water, form urine, which leaves your body through the urinary tract.
- Balancing Fluids
Proper hydration is crucial, and your kidneys make sure your body retains just the right amount of water.
- Regulating Blood Pressure
Kidneys produce hormones that control blood pressure. When they’re not functioning properly, it can lead to hypertension.
- Keeping Electrolytes Balanced
Minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium are kept in proper balance for your muscles, nerves, and heart to function optimally.
- Encouraging Red Blood Cell Production
Your kidneys also produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which helps in the creation of red blood cells, carrying oxygen throughout your body.
Your kidneys are essential for keeping your body healthy and balanced.
How to Maintain Kidney Health Naturally
1. Stay Hydrated, but Don’t Overdo It
Drinking enough water is key to kidney health, but balance is important. Overhydration can strain your kidneys. Drink around 8 glasses per day, unless advised otherwise by your physician.
2. Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Reduce sodium intake and avoid heavily processed foods. Opt for kidney-friendly snacks like apples, blueberries, and egg whites. Incorporate foods rich in potassium as recommended by your doctor, especially if managing conditions like diabetes.
3. Control Blood Sugar Levels
If you have diabetes, keeping blood sugar levels stable is vital. High blood sugar over time can damage the small blood vessels in your kidneys.
4. Keep Blood Pressure in Check
Aim to keep your blood pressure below 130/80, as high blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney problems. Our article, ‘How High Blood Pressure Silently Damages Your Kidneys,’ explains the impact of blood pressure on kidney health.
5. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair kidney function and exacerbate other health conditions.
6. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces risks associated with conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. For more information on the best exercises for kidney health, please read our article ‘Best Exercises for Kidney Health: How to Stay Active Safely.’
Early Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Adults
Kidney disease is often termed the “silent killer” because it can develop without noticeable symptoms. However, catching problems early can make all the difference. Watch out for these signs:
- Swelling in Ankles or Feet: Retaining fluid can indicate declining kidney function.
- Fatigue: Low energy may stem from decreased production of red blood cells.
- Changes in Urination: This could include frequent urination at night, foamy urine, or blood in the urine.
- Persistent Itching: High levels of waste in the blood can cause skin irritation.
- Shortness of Breath: Extra fluid can build up in your lungs if kidneys aren’t filtering properly.
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for a kidney health assessment.
Medications That May Harm Your Kidneys
Some medicines that help treat pain, infections, or other health problems can harm your kidneys if you use them the wrong way or for too long. Here are some important types to watch out for:
1. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs include common pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and even high-dose aspirin. These medicines can hurt your kidneys, especially if you use them a lot or for a long time. If your kidneys are already weak, NSAIDs may cause more damage.
Tip: Try to avoid using NSAIDs unless your doctor says it’s okay. If you need pain relief, ask your healthcare provider what’s safest for you.
2. Antibiotics
Some antibiotics, which are used to treat infections, can affect your kidneys. Certain antibiotics build up in the body if your kidneys are not working well. This can cause side effects or more kidney problems. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have kidney disease so they can adjust the dose or choose a safer medicine.
3. Medicines for Heart, Blood Pressure, and Diabetes
Medicines that help control blood pressure (like ACE inhibitors or ARBs) can protect your kidneys in many cases, but sometimes they also raise the potassium in your blood or lower blood flow too much if you are sick or dehydrated. Diabetes medicines and “water pills” may also need to be adjusted if you have kidney disease. Never change your dose or stop these medicines without talking to your healthcare team.
4. Other Medicines to Use with Caution
- Stomach acid medicines: Some acid reducers (like famotidine, omeprazole, or antacids with aluminum) can be hard on your kidneys if taken often.
- Lithium: Used for certain mental health conditions, lithium can harm kidneys if used over long periods.
- Over-the-counter products: Some over-the-counter (OTC) cold, flu, and heartburn medicines may contain ingredients bad for your kidneys.
What You Can Do:
- Always bring an up-to-date list of your medicines to your doctor or pharmacist.
- Ask if the medicines you take are safe for your kidneys.
- Never start, stop, or change your medicines without checking with your healthcare provider.
- Avoid using new over-the-counter products unless your doctor knows about it.
Protecting your kidneys means being careful with all your medicines—not just prescriptions, but also anything you buy at the drugstore. If in doubt, always ask your healthcare professional.
Take Control of Your Kidney Health
Your kidneys work hard to keep you healthy—why not return the favor? Awareness of how your kidneys function and following healthy habits can go a long way in keeping them healthy. Remember, small changes in your lifestyle today can protect your kidneys tomorrow.
Your kidney health is important, and we’re here to help. If you have any questions or need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Renal Medicine Associates. Our team is ready to support you on your journey to better kidney health. Contact us today—we’d love to hear from you!
This article has been reviewed for medical accuracy by the clinical staff at Renal Medicine Associates