Early symptoms of kidney disease, and how managing diabetes and weight reduces pressure on kidneys

Symptoms of kidney diseases: Watch out for signs like fatigue, weakness, swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands, and frequent urination at night (Image: Canva)

The kidneys are your body's natural detoxifiers that help to remove toxins and maintain fluid balance. Yet, kidney disease often goes unnoticed until it's too late. That’s because kidney disease develops slowly due to a combination of health conditions and lifestyle factors.

Symptoms of kidney disease:

Kidney disease often shows no symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to detect. However, as the condition progresses, signs like fatigue, weakness, swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands, and frequent urination at night may appear. Other common symptoms include blood in urine, persistent puffiness around the eyes, and dry, itchy skin. Knowing these signals early can help prevent further damage.

Also read | Chronic Kidney Disease: Easy ways to keep your kidneys healthy, from diet tweaks to hydration tips

Common causes of kidney disease:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), several factors can increase the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). Diabetes is one of the leading causes, with 1 in 3 adults with diabetes affected by CKD. High blood pressure follows closely, affecting 1 in 5 adults with hypertension.

Moreover, people with heart disease are also at risk, as heart failure can reduce blood flow to the kidneys. A family history of CKD further raises the chances, while obesity increases the risk by contributing to diabetes and high blood pressure, two major triggers of kidney disease. Understanding these risk factors can help with early detection and better kidney care.

Also read | Chronic kidney disease: Control blood pressure and diabetes, plus other tips to keep your kidney healthy

How to prevent kidney diseases:

While certain risk factors like family history and age are beyond your control, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help lower your risk of kidney disease. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the strain on your kidneys, while staying active with regular exercise improves blood circulation and keeps blood pressure in check.

Alongside, managing diabetes and blood pressure through medication, diet, and regular check-ups plays a crucial role in preventing kidney damage. Also, drinking plenty of water supports the kidneys in flushing out toxins, while cutting down on salt and processed foods helps control blood pressure. Lastly, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake further protects kidney health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis