Our kidneys are vital organs that filter waste and toxins from the blood, producing about 1.5 litres of urine daily. When they fail to do this efficiently, toxic waste builds up, leading to kidney disease.

Functions of the kidneys include the removal of metabolic waste, blood pressure control, fluid and electrolyte balance, and stimulation of red blood cell production, which helps maintain haemoglobin levels.

In adults, the most common causes of kidney damage are high blood pressure and diabetes, both often undiagnosed for years. Kidney disease usually progresses silently.

Early symptoms are non-specific. Over time, these symptoms can progress- itching, nausea, decreased appetite, swelling in the feet and around the eyes. In later stages, this swelling can involve the whole body along with vomiting and difficulty in breathing. At this stage, the kidneys lose their ability to function properly.

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

Everyday habits that harm your kidneys:

Not drinking enough water: Dehydration reduces the kidneys’ ability to flush toxins and increases the risk of kidney stones.

Too much salt: Excess salt raises blood pressure and puts extra strain on already vulnerable kidneys.

Smoking: Restricts blood flow and increases the risk of diabetes and hypertension.

Processed foods: Instant meals, chips, sausages, and frozen meats are loaded with sodium and preservatives.

Binge drinking: Heavy alcohol intake.

Protect your kidneys early. Stay hydrated, eat fresh, limit salt intake and alcohol, quit smoking, exercise regularly, monitor your blood pressure and sugar levels, and have timely check-ups with your physicians. Your kidneys may be silent, but the damage doesn’t have to be.

Dr. Manish Jain, Senior Director, Nephrology

Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon