WHAT DO OUR KIDNEYS DO?

Our kidneys are filters which support the various functions of all our organs other than the brain. Kidneys manufacture essential chemicals, they break down (metabolize) unnecessary or dangerous substances, they retain necessary substances and they eliminate toxic waste.

In everyday life, our kidneys filter about 150 litres of fluid but keep back (reabsorb) about 148 litres of fluid and useful substances like protein while the waste is excreted in about 2 litres of urine per day.

Problems with our kidneys can be caused by:
·         high blood pressure (putting more stress on the blood vessels throughout the body, including the kidneys)
·         diabetes mellitus (where there is a deposition of substance that causes the kidney filters to be gummed up)  
·         inflammation of the kidney (glomerulonephritis)
·         blockage (may be caused by kidney stones that are formed by crystallisation of chemicals in the urine)
·         hereditary aspects (may cause the development of cysts or a predisposition to cancer of the kidneys)
·         trauma to the kidneys (accidents and injury caused by medication, drugs, poisons and radiation)

OTHER CONDITIONS THAT CAN CAUSE KIDNEY FAILURE

There is great concern internationally about the incidence of high blood pressure and diabetes that is on the rise. These conditions put unnecessary strain on the kidneys and it is estimated that more than 50% of people with diabetes will develop kidney problems while high blood pressure is known as the most common cause of kidney problems, especially in SA.   

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT KIDNEY DISEASE AND KIDNEY FAILURE?

 In order to prevent the occurrence of kidney disease it is important that the following principles must be promoted:

• QUIT SMOKING
  
  People who smoke are three times more likely to have reduced kidney function.
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• LIMIT ALCOHOL
  
  Excessive alcohol intake can lead to heart disease and high blood pressure, increasing the risk of kidney disease.

• EXERCISE
  
  The benefits of regular exercise can help to reduce the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes which are risk factors for kidney disease. It is suggested that you exercise for 30 minutes on at least 5 days a week.
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• NUTRITION
  
  People with kidney disease may need to make some dietary changes to help manage their condition. It is very important that these changes must be discussed with the treating physician to create an individual diet plan.

For the prevention of kidney disease and for healthy living even if there is no or limited risk of kidney disease it is important that the following guidelines should be adhered to:

 Dietary tips:

-          Limit salt in the diet to the absolute minimum. (Processed foods, spices and condiments, pre-prepared foods and take-aways normally have high salt content and should be avoided.)

-          Avoid saturated fats such as chicken skin, fat on meat and dairy fat.

-          Be aware of the sugar content in food and drinks and avoid excessive intake of sugar.

Tips for drinking:

-          Make water the tipple of choice. Water assists in transporting nutrients around the body, as well as helping to eliminate waste.

-          Limit the intake of caffeine and cola. These can irritate the bladder and can act as a diuretic.

• CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE WORKER / DOCTOR

Kidney problems can easily be detected by doing a urine dipstick test, taking a blood pressure and a few further investigative tests if anything abnormal is found. These examinations should de done at least once a year, especially if there is a family history of hypertension or diabetes or if there is a high risk because of smoking, obesity or stress.

For more information or to make a donation contact THE NATIONAL KIDNEY FOUNDATION by e-mail: nkfsa@mweb.co.za or on telephone number 011 447 2531.

References : Hogan, B; Guidelines for Chronic Renal Dialysis; Department of Health; Published 03/03/2009.

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