Natural Ways To Take Care Of Kidneys: Symptoms Of Kidney Disease

We all know the importance of kidney in our body and its contribution to overall health. Just like heart and liver, kidney is a vital organ. Its main function is to excrete the waste products from the blood, and regulate the fluid balance in the body.

If your kidney does not function to its optimum, your general health is compromised, and it can lead to serious complications as time passes. In this perspective it is important to take care of your kidney for overall well being and longevity.

There are two bean shaped kidneys located just below the ribs on either side of your back.

Together with the tube shaped ureters, bladder and urethra it forms the whole urinary system. The waste products that get filtered from the kidney are carried through urine in the bladder and eventually are removed from your body through the urethra.

Causes And Symptoms Of Kidney Disease

In majority of patients suffering from kidney diseases, symptoms and signs are not at the anatomical site of the kidneys. This is due the fact that the clinical features of kidney disease frequently arise from the abnormality in the chemical composition of the body or from hypertension.

Hypertension and diabetes are considered as two main causes for developing CKD (chronic kidney disease). The true origin of kidney disease is suspected only after the detection of urinary abnormalities. Here are some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate kidney problem.

  • Burning and urgency to pass urine.
  • Passing urine too often or too less.
  • Edema (accumulation of water) in feet and ankles, face, and later on in the abdomen.
  • Blood in urine.

How To Take Care Of Your Kidneys Naturally?

If your kidney is functioning normally you may not require taking extra care. A balanced diet and enough water consumption are two important ways to maintain good health of your kidneys. However, if you experience any of the above symptoms, you need to be examined by your doctor. You may also follow certain tips to take care of your kidneys such as:

  • Control your blood pressure and blood sugar: Hypertension and diabetes are two important diseases that can cause permanent damage to kidney in a long run. Around thirty percent of people suffering from these two diseases are susceptible to develop CKD. To prevent damage to the kidneys, keep blood pressure and blood sugar as close to its normal values when your are suffering from these diseases.
  • Drink water: Water helps to flush out the toxins and prevents the formation of kidney stone and other infections. Normal intake of 8 to 9 glasses of water in a day or two liters is recommended. However in certain diseases of kidney such as CKD, you have to consult your doctor for the amount of water you need to drink.
  • Eat salt in moderate amount when you are suffering from hypertension as sodium present in salt raises blood pressure. People suffering from CKD have to restrict food containing sodium.
  • Eat balanced diet: It is key to maintain general well being so as it is to kidney health. Eating vegetables and fruits help alkalize the body. Avoid eating junk food, and too much of fried food. Limit certain foods that are rich in oxalates as it can lead to formation of kidney stones. These foods include spinach, beet, chocolates, soybean etc.
  • Limit meat and meat products as it can increase the amount of uric acid and excess of uric acid in the blood can lead to gout formation.
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol and caffeine as they are toxins that can cause kidney damage with regular consumption.
  • Exercise and keep yourself active. An active life is good for kidney health. Avoid heavy exercise if you are already suffering from kidney disease.