Introduction
March is National Kidney Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health, the
risks of kidney disease, and how to take proactive steps to protect these vital organs. The kidneys play a crucial
role in filtering waste, regulating blood pressure, balancing electrolytes, and producing essential hormones.
Unfortunately, kidney disease is often silent in its early stages, meaning many people are unaware they have a
problem until significant damage has occurred. According to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), over 37
million Americans have chronic kidney disease (CKD), yet most don’t know it.
In this blog, we’ll discuss:
• The signs and symptoms of kidney disorders
• Diet and exercise recommendations to protect your kidneys
• The medical treatments available for kidney disease
By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to safeguard your kidney health and seek early intervention if
necessary.
Recognizing the Signs of Kidney Disease
The kidneys have a remarkable ability to function even when they’re compromised, meaning symptoms often
don’t appear until there is significant damage. However, understanding early warning signs can help in early
detection and prevention of serious complications.
- Changes in Urination
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- Kidneys are responsible for producing urine, so any changes in urination patterns can indicate an issue. Watch out for:
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- Increased or decreased frequency of urination
- Foamy or bubbly urine, which can be a sign of excess protein
- Dark, tea-colored, or bloody urine (hematuria)
- Pain or discomfort while urinating
- Waking up multiple times at night to urinate (nocturia)Swelling (Edema) in the Body
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- When kidneys fail to properly filter out excess fluids and sodium, swelling can develop in the:
• Feet and ankles
• Hands and fingers
• Face and around the eyes
Swelling can also be a sign of heart or liver disease, so it’s crucial to get it evaluated. - Persistent Fatigue and Weakness
Healthy kidneys produce erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. When
kidney function declines, EPO levels drop, leading to anemia, which can cause:
• Extreme tiredness even after rest
• Weakness and dizziness
• Shortness of breath - Unexplained Itching and Skin Rashes
A buildup of toxins and waste products in the bloodstream can cause:
• Dry, flaky skin
• Severe itching (pruritus)
• Skin discoloration or rashes - Shortness of Breath
Kidney disease can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, causing difficulty breathing. Additionally, anemia from
kidney failure can lower oxygen levels, making breathing harder. - Nausea, Vomiting, and Loss of Appetite
Toxins accumulating in the body due to kidney dysfunction can lead to:
• Persistent nausea
• Vomiting after meals
• Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss - High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
The kidneys regulate blood pressure, so when they are impaired, it can lead to uncontrolled hypertension. Over
time, this can create a vicious cycle, as high blood pressure further damages the kidneys - Muscle Cramps and Restless Legs
Kidney dysfunction can cause imbalances in electrolytes like calcium, potassium, and magnesium, leading to:
• Painful muscle cramps
• Restless leg syndrome (an uncontrollable urge to move the legs) - Difficulty Sleeping
Toxins in the blood may cause insomnia or frequent waking at night, often linked to sleep apnea in kidney
disease patients. If you experience multiple symptoms, consult a doctor for kidney function tests such as blood
work (creatinine, BUN, GFR) and urine analysis
Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Kidney Health
While some kidney conditions are genetic or caused by medical issues like diabetes and hypertension, many
cases of kidney disease can be prevented or slowed through lifestyle changes.
- Follow a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Your diet plays a major role in kidney health, as excessive sodium, phosphorus, and potassium can put stress on
the kidneys. - Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water prevents kidney stones and helps the kidneys flush out toxins. The general
recommendation is 8–10 cups a day, but if you have kidney disease, consult your doctor about appropriate fluid
intake. - Maintain a Healthy Weight and Exercise Regularly
Being overweight can increase the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, the two leading causes of kidney
disease. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 days a week, including: - Manage Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar
If you have diabetes or hypertension, work with your doctor to keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg
and blood sugar levels stable - Avoid Over-the-Counter Painkillers
Long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can damage the kidneys. Speak
with your doctor about alternative pain management options.
Medical Treatments for Kidney Disease
If kidney disease is diagnosed, treatment depends on the stage of kidney function loss and the underlying cause
- Medications
A Primary Care Provider (PCP) and/or Nephrologist (Kidney Specialist) may prescribe:
• Blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs) to protect kidney function
• Diuretics to reduce fluid retention
• Medications to control phosphorus and potassium levels - Dialysis (for Advanced Kidney Disease)
When kidney function drops below 15%, dialysis may be needed. There are two types:
• Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered through a dialysis machine
• Peritoneal dialysis: A fluid exchange process using the abdominal lining - Kidney Transplant
For end-stage kidney disease, a kidney transplant may be the best long-term solution. A healthy kidney from a
living or deceased donor can restore function.
Take Charge of Your Kidney Health
Kidney disease is often preventable, and early detection can significantly slow its progression. Here’s what you
can do today:
✅ Schedule an annual kidney function test if you’re at risk
✅ Maintain a balanced diet and active lifestyle
✅ Monitor blood pressure and diabetes levels
✅ Drink plenty of water and limit sodium intake
By taking proactive steps, you can help protect your kidneys and lead a healthier life.
If you do not have a PCP and/or Nephrologist, please contact Arizona State Physicians Association (ASPA) at
1-602-265-2524 or visit www.azspa.com.) to further assist you in your healthcare journey.
Additional Resources:
• National Kidney Foundation: www.kidney.org
• American Kidney Fund: www.kidneyfund.org
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): www.niddk.nih.gov
Warm Regards,
Dr. Susan LaSala-Wood DNP FNP-C, RNFA
President of Arizona State Physicians Association
