
Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, happens when the kidneys slowly lose their ability to filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. It often develops over many years and can lead to serious health problems if not managed properly.
While CKD cannot usually be cured, research shows that its progression can be slowed down with the right steps. Understanding what causes the disease to worsen and how to protect your kidneys is key to living a longer and healthier life.
One of the most important ways to slow CKD is to control blood pressure. High blood pressure puts stress on the kidneys and speeds up damage. Doctors usually aim to keep blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg in people with kidney disease.
Medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs are often prescribed because they not only lower blood pressure but also protect kidney function. Regular checkups and monitoring are important to make sure the treatment is working.
Managing blood sugar is just as important, especially for people with diabetes. High blood sugar damages small blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to work properly.
Studies show that keeping blood sugar in a healthy range can delay or even prevent kidney damage. People with CKD and diabetes should work closely with their healthcare team to monitor blood sugar, take medications as prescribed, and follow a kidney-friendly diet.
Diet plays a big role in slowing CKD. A diet low in sodium (salt) helps reduce blood pressure and swelling. Too much salt makes the body hold onto fluid, which makes the kidneys work harder. The National Kidney Foundation recommends keeping sodium intake below 2,300 milligrams per day.
Limiting protein intake may also help, because the kidneys have to work to get rid of waste from protein. However, it’s important to get the right amount—too little protein can lead to poor nutrition. A dietitian can help plan the best eating pattern.
Another tip is to avoid medications that can harm the kidneys. Pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen, called NSAIDs, can cause further damage if taken too often. Always check with a doctor before taking new medications or supplements, as some can affect kidney function.
Staying hydrated is important, but people with CKD should be careful not to drink too much fluid, especially in later stages. The amount of fluid needed depends on the person’s condition, so it’s best to follow medical advice.
Smoking and alcohol can make kidney disease worse. Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the kidneys. Alcohol can raise blood pressure and interfere with medications. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can greatly improve health outcomes.
Regular exercise also helps by lowering blood pressure, improving blood sugar control, and supporting a healthy weight. Even simple activities like walking or stretching for 30 minutes a day can make a difference.
In summary, slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease is possible with a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes.
Keeping blood pressure and blood sugar under control, following a kidney-friendly diet, avoiding harmful substances, and staying active all contribute to better kidney health. Working closely with doctors and making small, consistent changes can help protect kidney function for years to come.
If you care about kidney health, please read studies about how to protect your kidneys from diabetes, and drinking coffee could help reduce risk of kidney injury.
For more information about kidney health, please see recent studies about foods that may prevent recurrence of kidney stones, and eating nuts linked to lower risk of chronic kidney disease and death.
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