What Your Kidneys Do and Why Kidney Health Matters
Your kidneys are small organs with a very big job. Located on either side of your spine just below the rib cage, these two fist-sized organs help keep your body balanced and healthy every day.
During National Kidney Month, healthcare providers encourage patients to learn more about kidney health and how to protect it. Understanding the important role your kidneys play can help you take steps to prevent serious health problems.
What Do Your Kidneys Do?
The primary function of your kidneys is to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. Every minute, your kidneys filter blood through millions of tiny filtering units called nephrons. Waste products are removed and leave the body through urine; however, filtration is only one of the many roles your kidneys perform.
Healthy kidneys also:
Balance fluids in the body
Maintain healthy levels of minerals such as sodium and potassium
Help regulate blood pressure
Produce hormones that support red blood cell production
Activate vitamin D to help maintain strong bones
When kidneys function properly, they help maintain the body’s internal balance so other systems can work efficiently.
What Happens When Kidneys Stop Working Properly?
If the kidneys become damaged or lose their ability to filter blood effectively, waste and excess fluids can build up in the body. This condition is called chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease usually develops slowly over time. Many people do not notice symptoms in the early stages, which makes regular checkups and screening important.
If kidney disease progresses, it can lead to serious complications such as:
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Anemia
Bone problems
Fluid buildup in the body
In severe cases, kidney failure may occur, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
How Common Is Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease is more common than many people realize. Millions of adults are currently living with some form of kidney disease, and many do not know they have it.
Because early kidney disease often has no symptoms, routine health screenings are an important part of preventive care.
Who Is at Risk for Kidney Disease?
Several health conditions and lifestyle factors increase the risk of kidney disease.
Common risk factors include:
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Family history of kidney disease
Age over 60
Obesity
Smoking
Individuals with these risk factors should speak with their healthcare provider about kidney health and routine testing.
How to Protect Your Kidney Health
The good news is that many cases of kidney disease can be prevented or slowed with healthy lifestyle choices. Some of the best ways to protect your kidneys include:
Maintaining healthy blood pressure
Managing blood sugar if you have diabetes
Staying physically active
Eating a balanced diet
Drinking enough water
Avoiding excessive use of certain medications, such as NSAIDs
Scheduling regular checkups
Preventive care allows healthcare providers to identify kidney problems early, when treatment is most effective.
Take a Step Toward Better Kidney Health
Your kidneys work hard every day to keep your body healthy. During National Kidney Month, take time to learn more about kidney health and talk with your healthcare provider about preventive screening.