As one reads today, silent pandemic-chronic kidney disease continues to engulf the lives of millions quietly worldwide. An earlier study three weeks ago cited a number of around 850 million victims globally who experience some form of kidney disease that escalates day in and day out.
However, most people remain vigilant of this ever-increasing threat until it knocks at their doorstep. What makes CKD a global epidemic? What steps can one take to prevent or at least avoid becoming a victim of this disease?
This article attempts to answer some of those critical questions and equips you with how to address them.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease?
CKD is an abbreviation for chronic kidney disease or slow kidney failure. When the kidneys are not working, they cannot filter out the waste and toxins that are in the blood. CKD is not an acute disease but a progressive disease that eventually leads to renal failure. The bad news is that most people do not know they have it until it is dangerous enough.
Why Is CKD a Global Issue?
More than 850 million suffer from some form of kidney disease. That’s more than those with diabetes or cancer. In many countries, CKD is in the top ten causes of death. And numbers keep rising.
CKD becomes more common among people with such factors as diet, lack of exercise, and conditions including high blood pressure and diabetes. If you think that is not the case for you, think again; even healthy young people could be at risk.
The Warning Signs
Be attentive to what your body informs you. There are warning signs of CKD, which include the following:
- Persistent fatigue
- Swollen ankles, feet, or hands
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Foamy or bloody urine
- High blood pressure
If you see these, don’t wait. A simple urinalysis can reveal a lot about your kidney health. Early diagnosis is key to preventing severe complications.
Take Charge of Your Kidney Health
You have the power to protect your kidneys. Here’s how:
- Regular Check-Ups: If you are in the Philippines, a trusted laboratory in Quezon City will be able to carry out an accurate test for you.
- Monitor and Control Your Blood Pressure and Sugar: The main causes of CKD are diabetes and high blood pressure. Control these two to lower your risk.
- Hydrate Yourself: Drink plenty of water daily. It helps flush out the toxins through the kidneys effectively.
- Consume Kidney-Friendly Foods: Cut salt intake as much as possible and consume whole and processed foodstuffs, but fresh fruits and vegetables together with lean proteins should be opted for.
- Avoid Overdose Use of Pain Meds: You can damage your kidneys through the regular use of over-the-counter pain medication. Only make use of these when you need them, and avoid overdosing upon them.
Wrapping Up
Chronic Kidney Disease is not just a personal issue; it is a family, health care system, and economic issue. Prevention and early treatment can save lives. Simple lifestyle modification and above-average interest in health will really reduce the risks significantly. Don’t wait and see if this happens. Go get yourself tested. Stay informed and share it with those around you. Together, we can take charge of this health challenge at a global level. The battle to fight CKD starts with you. Take the first step today.