Kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and also producing urine. Kidney disease, or renal disease, is a condition that affects how these organs work. If the kidneys do not function as they should, waste products build up in the body, causing health problems. To deal with the condition, one requires timely intervention. Here, recognizing early warning signs, exploring treatment options, and maintaining a healthy food regimen are key steps.

Causes
Some factors that increase the risk of kidney disease are diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of the condition. Other causes can include the effects of certain supplements, infections, and autoimmune diseases.

Signs
Kidney disease is a progressive condition. So, it is crucial to recognize the early symptoms and seek medical attention. Here are some of the common issues one may experience:

– Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and/or hands
– Fatigue and weakness
– Trouble sleeping
– Chest pain
– Breathing problems
– Difficulty concentrating
– Loss of appetite
– Puffy eyes
– Numbness
– Muscle cramps and twitching
– Nausea and vomiting
– High blood pressure
– Blood in the urine, frequent urination, and decrease in urine output

Treatment options
Those diagnosed with kidney disease should work with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment options. The following options may be considered:

Prescription treatment: Depending on the cause, certain supplements and prescriptions may be recommended for managing the symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease.

Dialysis: The purpose of dialysis is to remove or draw out the waste and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do it. Dialysis can be categorized as hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. The healthcare provider will help determine which type is best for the patient.

Kidney transplant: This is an option for those with end-stage kidney disease. Here, a donor’s kidney replaces the non-functioning kidney. However, not everyone is a candidate for a transplant, and the procedure carries risks that should be considered.

Nutritional considerations
What one eats plays a key role in maintaining kidney health and management of disease symptoms.

Foods to eat: When dealing with the condition, the kidneys cannot filter excessive sodium, potassium, and phosphorus from the blood. So, foods with low amounts of these nutrients are safe options. Further, one should choose nutrient-rich foods that reduce the strain on kidneys and improve overall health. Here are the best options:

– Cauliflower, cabbage, and bell peppers are low in potassium and rich in nutrients like vitamins C and K.
– Blueberries, cranberries, and red grapes are low in potassium and rich in antioxidants, helping fight free radical damage.
– Pineapple is low in potassium and contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation.
– Buckwheat and bulgur are low in potassium and high in fiber.
– Healthy fats, such as olive oil, can reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
– Macadamia nuts are great sources of healthy fats that can also help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Foods to avoid: One should limit the intake of the following foods:

– Whole wheat bread, brown rice, potatoes, and sweet potatoes are rich in potassium.
– Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt contain phosphorus.
– Pickles, processed foods and meats, and canned foods are rich in sodium, which can increase blood pressure.
– Tomatoes, avocados, and bananas are rich in potassium.

One should consult a registered healthcare professional before making drastic changes to their meal plan.