While receiving a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be daunting, early detection offers the opportunity to take proactive measures to extend kidney function. Collaborating closely with your healthcare provider significantly increases the likelihood of maintaining a high quality of life despite kidney disease.

Adhering to sound health practices, staying engaged in your professional life, and continuing to enjoy social activities empower individuals to exert control over their condition. Moreover, having employment with health insurance offers the assurance of financial stability and access to essential health benefits.

CKD stems from various causes, but there are universal recommendations to delay kidney failure, which can lead to the necessity of dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Managing Diabetes to Prolong Kidney Function

For individuals with diabetes, maintaining blood glucose levels within a prescribed range and faithfully taking prescribed medications is crucial. Keeping the hemoglobin A1c level below 6.5 percent and undergoing kidney function tests at least annually are imperative. Studies have demonstrated that specific high blood pressure medications can safeguard the kidneys of individuals with diabetes, even if their blood pressure is within the normal range.

Controlling High Blood Pressure for Extended Kidney Function

Patients dealing with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, must adhere to their prescribed blood pressure medication regimen as directed by their physician. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute advises keeping blood pressure under control at 125/75 or lower for those with kidney issues who are not diabetic, or 130/85 or lower for those with diabetes.

Other Diseases That Affect Kidney Health

Several other diseases, such as IgA nephropathy, glomerulonephritis, and lupus, can lead to kidney damage due to an overactive immune system and resulting inflammation in the kidneys. To slow down the disease progression, doctors may recommend steroids and other medications.

CKD can also be triggered by infections, obstructions, and medications that harm the kidneys. Antibiotics can often resolve infections, while surgical procedures or other interventions may address blockages. It’s vital for patients to inform all their healthcare providers of their CKD diagnosis and provide a comprehensive list of all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, to prevent further kidney damage.

Steps to Prolong Kidney Function

Regardless of the cause of CKD, individuals can take actions to extend kidney function. Smoking accelerates the progression of kidney disease, so quitting is strongly advised for those with kidney disease. Adopting a healthy diet, ensuring proper nutrition, shedding excess weight, and engaging in regular exercise are all within a patient’s control and contribute to better health. In fact, many type 2 diabetics can prevent diabetes by following these steps. Individuals with high blood pressure are encouraged to limit their sodium intake. Some doctors believe that restricting protein and phosphorus in the diet may also slow the progression of kidney disease. Ongoing research explores the effects of various foods and drugs on delaying kidney failure, including fish oil for IgA nephropathy, antioxidant or anti-inflammatory vitamins and foods, and the prescription of the anti-fibrotic drug pirfenidone for treating focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

It’s important to remember that your kidney condition is unique. Engage in open and regular communication with your healthcare provider and your healthcare team to receive personalized advice on prolonging kidney function. This dialogue should encompass discussions about your medical condition, your emotional well-being, and seeking guidance on communicating with your family about CKD. Your healthcare team is dedicated to ensuring your physical and emotional well-being.

Tips to Delay the Onset of Dialysis – Quick Overview:
– Maintain a balanced diet and achieve a healthy weight.
– Incorporate regular exercise into your routine.
– Quit smoking.
– Limit sodium intake in your diet.
– Effectively manage high blood pressure.
– Control diabetes.
– Preserve employment and retain health insurance.
– Engage in open discussions with your healthcare team.
– Visit AmericanDialysisCenters.com for comprehensive information about your condition.