Understanding Kidney Health
The kidneys play a vital role in keeping your body in balance. They filter the blood to remove wastes and toxins, regulate chemical levels, and help control blood pressure. Kidneys also support bone strength and are essential in the production of red blood cells.
What Your Kidneys Do
🩸 Filter blood and remove waste
💧 Balance fluids and electrolytes
❤️ Help regulate blood pressure
🦴 Support strong bones
🔴 Aid in red blood cell production
Understanding Kidney Failure
When kidneys stop working, waste and fluid build up in the body, affecting your overall health. While there is no cure for kidney failure, treatments like dialysis and transplant can help restore balance and improve quality of life.
Treatment Options
Hemodialysis
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Blood is filtered through a machine called a dialyzer.
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Usually done 3 times a week at a dialysis center.
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Side effects may include mild fatigue, cramps, or nausea.
Peritoneal Dialysis
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Uses the lining of your abdomen to filter blood with a cleansing solution.
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Can often be done at home.
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Two types: CAPD (daytime exchanges) and CCPD (machine-assisted while sleeping).
Kidney Transplant
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A healthy kidney from a donor is placed in your body.
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May allow you to live without dialysis.
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Requires lifelong medications to prevent rejection.
Living with Kidney Disease
💊 Take medications as prescribed
💉 Manage blood pressure & blood sugar
🥗 Follow a kidney-healthy diet
🚫 Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) unless directed
🌿 Talk to your doctor before starting supplements