What Are Unique Kidney Health Challenges Older Adults Face?

While aging brings wisdom, it’s often accompanied by natural health changes that may include unique kidney challenges. In fact, current estimates suggest that about one-third of adults age 65 and older face a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Dr. Sadeddin and his team at Texas Advanced Renal Health are dedicated to providing personalized kidney care for patients of all ages and stages of life, helping them live healthy, fulfilling lives.

What Kidney Challenges May Affect Patients in Their Golden Years?

As the years go by, natural changes can lead to declining function, leaving patients in their 70s and 80s more prone to chronic kidney disease (CKD). That’s especially the case when other contributing conditions are present, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, two of the leading causes of CKD. Other factors that may contribute to declining kidney health in senior patients include heart disease, obesity, and family history of kidney disease.

Additional factors that increase the risk of kidney disease include the following:

• Prolonged use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen to manage chronic age-related pain
• Recurrent urinary tract or kidney infections, which may become more common in some older adults
• Urinary tract obstructions such as an enlarged prostate (BPH) that restrict urine flow and strain the kidneys
• Dehydration, which older adults may be more vulnerable to because thirst sensation and fluid intake can decline with age
• Acute illnesses or hospitalizations that trigger sudden drops in kidney function (Acute Kidney Injury)
• Elevated uric acid levels and gout that can lead to kidney stones or inflammation

What Are the Warning Signs and Symptoms of CKD in Older Adults? 

The following are some of the warning signs of CKD that warrant prompt evaluation:

• High Blood Pressure or Diabetes: Blood pressure and sugar levels that become hard to control are often linked to CKD.
• Changes in Urination: Older adults may experience changes in urination, such as increased frequency, reduced volume, foamy urine, blood in urine, or waking up to urinate at night (nocturia)
• Swelling (Edema): Patients may experience puffiness around the eyes or swollen feet and ankles due to fluid buildup resulting from declining kidney function.
• Sleep and Cognitive Changes: Patients often find themselves struggling to sleep and may experience decreased cognitive function, lack of mental sharpness, and confusion.
• Fatigue or Weakness: Signs of CKD in older adults may include dizziness, feeling low on energy, or fatigue due to anemia or waste buildup in the blood.
• Skin Changes: Dry, itchy skin and rashes can develop from waste buildup and mineral imbalances resulting from kidney function loss.
• Other Symptoms: Patients often experience muscle cramps, headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, ammonia breath, or even a metallic taste in the mouth.

If you or a loved one experiences any of these warning signs of CKD, contact Texas Advanced Renal Health to schedule a consultation. The sooner a concern is addressed, the better the long-term outcomes.

How Can Older Adults Support Their Kidney Health?

Preventive care is key to preserving your kidney function as you age. Make sure to keep up with routine medical care, manage conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and take your medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s also important to maintain a healthy weight, stay hydrated, and maintain a kidney-friendly diet low in salt and processed foods.

It’s also important to keep up with your regular kidney function screening, especially if you have a family history or other risk factors for CKD. Simple blood and urine labs can uncover changes in kidney function, often before you notice any symptoms.

Senior Kidney Care Near Me in McKinney, TX

If you have signs of CKD or want to learn how to protect your kidney health, contact Texas Advanced Renal Health to schedule a personalized consultation. Dr. Sadeddin and his patient-centered team will evaluate your needs and create a personalized treatment plan to support your kidney function and help you live your life to the fullest in your golden years. We invite you to call 972-548-4833 or visit us online to schedule your appointment today!