The kidneys play an indispensable role in the body, filtering out toxic and undigested substances. Unfortunately, 1 in 7 adults in the country deal with kidney disease, which can eventually lead to kidney failure. That’s why one should address any problems with urination or excretion as soon as possible and seek treatment. These days, one can get access to advanced interventions for kidney problems that can prevent extensive organ damage.

Causes of kidney failure
1. Diabetes
When blood sugar levels are constantly high, they are likely to damage the blood vessels. As a result, the kidneys may be unable to purify blood as they should, leading to excess water and salt retention.

2. High blood pressure
Chronic high blood pressure can narrow the blood vessels, reducing blood flow. When this happens, the kidneys cannot efficiently filter waste from the body. If left untreated, elevated blood pressure can lead to kidney disease and, eventually, kidney failure.

3. Polycystic kidney disease
This is an inherited condition, which causes cysts to develop inside the kidneys, making these organs become excessively large. The cysts might hinder kidney function, increasing the risk of complete organ failure.

4. Lupus
In this condition, the immune system begins attacking its own tissues.

5. Glomerular diseases
Glomeruli are tiny blood vessels that form an intricate network in the kidneys. They are responsible for excreting waste and fluids. Damage to the glomeruli can lead to kidney dysfunction and, eventually, kidney failure.

Symptoms
1. Low urine output
Those with kidney disease may not be able to urinate as much as required. So, if one notices a persistently low urine output, it is crucial to consult a doctor to prevent kidney failure.

2. Swelling in the ankles, legs, and feet
When dealing with kidney disease, the body may be unable to excrete fluid waste as it should. This can cause fluid accumulation in the legs, feet, and ankles, making them appear swollen.

3. Fatigue
Poorly functioning kidneys may be unable to excrete toxins and waste from the body, so these substances can accumulate in the blood. Such blood impurities can cause extreme fatigue and problems with concentration.

4. Dry, itchy skin
There may be many causes for dry and itchy skin, but one of them is kidney damage. Poorly functioning kidneys mess with the balance of minerals and nutrients in the body, leading to skin problems.

5. Blood in the urine
If the kidney filters are damaged, blood can flow into the urine. This sign should prompt one to seek medical intervention, as it might indicate advanced kidney disease or failure.

6. Puffy eyes
This is usually a symptom of a lack of protein. When kidneys malfunction, excess protein is expelled from the body, leading to puffy eyes.

7. Frequent urination
The need to urinate frequently may indicate that the filters in the kidneys have been damaged. But, frequent urination may also be a sign of urinary infection. In any case, it is best to consult a doctor upon noticing this symptom.

Treatment options
1. Dialysis
This procedure helps artificially expel fluid and waste from the body when the kidneys stop carrying out this process naturally. Usually, those with kidney failure need to get dialysis done twice a week to clear their bladder and bowels. One type of dialysis is peritoneal dialysis, where a cleansing solution is introduced to the abdomen through a catheter. After a while, this solution is drained along with excess bodily fluid. Another type of procedure here is hemodialysis, wherein a dialyzer removes excess fluid and waste from the bloodstream.

2. Kidney transplant
Here, damaged kidneys are replaced with healthy ones from a donor. Even after undergoing a kidney transplant, one has to continue with treatment to ensure that the transplanted organ functions adequately.

Lifestyle changes
1. Avoid salty foods
Those with kidney failure should avoid excessive salt intake, as the condition can make getting rid of sodium from the body difficult. Also, salty foods can elevate blood pressure, which can worsen kidney problems and increase discomfort during dialysis.

2. Choose heart-healthy foods
Heart problems can aggravate issues like blood pressure, which can worsen kidney failure symptoms. To avoid this problem, one should choose heart-healthy foods like leafy greens, whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

3. Drink plenty of water
Adequate water intake is essential for improving kidney function, especially when dealing with kidney disease. Besides having plenty of water throughout the day, one should add other healthy fluids like soups and fresh fruit juices to their daily meals.

4. Exercise regularly
An active lifestyle can help control problems like cholesterol and blood pressure, improving kidney function. So, it’s a good idea to add workouts to the daily routine. One can also walk and jog regularly to avoid a sedentary lifestyle.

5. Seek support
There’s no miracle cure for kidney failure, and ignoring the condition might make daily tasks more challenging. So, it’s important to seek support from family members and friends and hire professionals to help with daily chores.