Kidney Health

The kidneys filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood and remove them in the urine. They also produce hormones that help regulate blood pressure, produce blood cells and maintain bone health.

It is a permanent decline in kidney function over months or years. In its early stages it usually causes no symptoms, so it is important for people in risk groups to have regular check-ups.

Swelling around the feet and eyes, changes in the amount or color of urine, foamy urine, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and itching may occur. Since these symptoms can also appear in other conditions, they should be evaluated by a physician.

The most common causes are diabetes and high blood pressure. Kidney inflammation, hereditary diseases and long-term use of certain medications can also damage the kidneys.

The creatinine level in the blood and the kidney filtration rate (GFR) calculated from it are measured, and the urine is checked for protein. Imaging methods such as ultrasound are also used if necessary.

The disease is classified into five stages according to the kidney filtration rate. Stage five is the final stage, when kidney replacement therapies such as dialysis or transplantation are considered.

Acute kidney injury can often improve partially or completely. Chronic kidney disease, however, is usually irreversible; but with early diagnosis and the right treatment, its progression can be slowed significantly.

Keeping your blood pressure and blood sugar under control, reducing salt, quitting smoking, exercising regularly and avoiding unnecessary medication are the basic steps to protect kidney health.

Some painkillers, especially when used for a long time or at high doses, can damage the kidneys. If you have kidney disease, do not use any medication, including over-the-counter painkillers, without consulting your physician.

In healthy people, drinking enough water helps prevent kidney stones. However, people with kidney failure or on dialysis may need to restrict fluids; ask your physician how much fluid you should drink.

Recurrent or untreated stones can damage the kidneys over time through blockage and infection. Regular follow-up and treatment of stones reduce this risk.

People with diabetes or high blood pressure, those with a family history of kidney disease, older adults and people on long-term medication should have their kidney function checked regularly.