Kidney Disease: The Importance of Early Detection
Your kidneys help keep you healthy by filtering waste, toxins, and excess fluids from your blood. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their function, leading to dangerous levels of toxins building up in the blood. At Texas Advanced Renal Health, we emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment of CKD to keep your kidneys as healthy as possible for as long as possible. You can count on us for exceptional, compassionate care!
What Are the Most Common Risk Factors for Kidney Disease
Risk factors for CKD include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and family history. They also include smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, excessive salt intake, processed foods, heavy alcohol drinking, and inadequate water intake. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen can also damage your kidneys, especially when taken in high doses or for extended periods of time.
What Are Signs of Chronic Kidney Disease?
While kidney disease may not produce symptoms in its early stages, here are a few warning signs:
- Changes in urination, including increased frequency or foamy urine
- Swelling of the legs, ankles, or face
- An increase in blood pressure
- Weakness or lack of energy
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Shortness of breath due to fluid buildup in the lungs
The Importance of Early Detection of Kidney Disease
Early detection helps us identify and treat the underlying causes of kidney disease. Whether it is getting your blood pressure in check, controlling diabetes, or helping you make kidney-healthy lifestyle changes, targeted interventions can protect your kidneys from further damage.
Early detection and management of kidney disease lowers the risk of CKD-related complications, including cardiovascular problems, anemia, bone disease, and electrolyte imbalances. Even for those with advanced kidney disease, intervening as early as possible can stop or delay kidney failure and the need for dialysis or a transplant. At Texas Advanced Renal Health, our goal is to start treatment and management of CKD as early as possible to safeguard your kidneys and your overall health.
Screening and Diagnosis
Routine health check-ups play a critical role in the early detection of CKD. Your healthcare provider may perform various diagnostic tests during your annual wellness visits, including blood tests that measure kidney function and urine tests to check for protein or blood. If any signs of kidney disease are detected, your trusted team at Texas Advanced Renal Health is here to help.
Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
If you have signs of CKD, it is important to take steps to protect your kidneys, including the following:
- Managing diabetes and high blood pressure
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Following a kidney-healthy diet
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Drinking plenty of water
- Taking prescription medications as directed
Early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of CKD and prevent a host of complications.
Kidney Care Near Me in McKinney, TX
If you have risk factors or symptoms of chronic kidney disease, or if your primary care physician recommends further screening, contact Texas Advanced Renal Health to schedule a consultation. Dr. Sadeddin and his dedicated team are committed to providing exceptional care to ensure your kidneys function their best for as long as possible. We invite you to call 972-548-4833 to schedule your appointment today!