All people are exposed to a large number of health problems, although one that is quite common is chronic kidney disease. This medical condition is characterized by the progressive deterioration of the kidneys, which are responsible for keeping blood components in balance, as well as filtering waste and excess water through urine.
Due to the above, the kidneys They are vital organs that help regulate blood pressure, in addition to being relevant for bone health, blood cell production and electrolyte balance in the body.
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What are the symptoms of chronic kidney disease?
- Changes in urine production.
- Foot swelling.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Weakness.
A very important point to keep in mind is that this is a deadly problem. According to National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI)Only during the period from January to June 2023, more than 7 thousand deaths were recorded due to renal insufficiency in Mexico.
What are the risk factors for chronic kidney disease?
- Diabetes.
- Hypertension.
- Obesity.
- Smoking.
- Have a direct family member with kidney disease.
- Self-medicate.
- Hypertension during pregnancy or preeclampsia.
- Be over 60 years old.
It is worth noting that the diabetes and hypertension They are considered the two main causes of chronic kidney disease in people of all ages.
For its part, in Mexico one in 10 people suffers chronic kidney disease and nine out of ten do not know that they suffer from it.
Does chronic kidney disease have a cure?
It is important not to lose sight of the fact that this public health problem there is no curebut in general, treatment consists of measures to help control symptoms, reduce complications, and slow the progression of the disease.
How can you detect chronic kidney disease?
Detection can be done through professional medical tests. Some of the main ones are the following.
- Blood: creatinine levels to calculate the percentage of kidney function. Doctors are the ones who must request this study and calculate the degree of kidney function.
- General urine examination: to look for protein in urine, or to determine the urinary albumin/creatinine ratio. The presence of protein in the urine is one of the earliest markers of kidney disease. Taking the necessary preventive measures and periodically consulting with a trusted doctor are two factors that make it possible to moderate the progression of kidney disease, reduce its complications and achieve a better quality of life.
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Tips to maintain good kidney health
- Go for a periodic medical check-up if there are risk factors.
- Do not self-medicate.
- No Smoking.
- If you have diabetes or prediabetes, control your blood sugar levels.
- Maintain optimal blood pressure levels.
- Hydrate ourselves healthily.
- Eat healthy.
- Stay active and fit.
The Chronic Kidney Disease represents a significant challenge for public health in Mexico. Its incidence is increasing, it has an unfavorable prognosis, and it involves high costs and lacks a national registry to collect data and follow-up.
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