Kidneys are the ‘filters’ that remove waste from our body. The main culprits behind their failure are:
1. Uncontrolled Diabetes
Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney disease worldwide. High blood sugar damages the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys. This reduces the kidneys’ ability to filter waste.
2. High Blood Pressure
If blood pressure is not controlled, it strains the blood vessels in the kidneys and narrows or destroys them. When the kidneys do not receive enough blood, their function stops.
3. Excessive use of painkillers
Taking painkillers (NSAIDs – for example, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac) for a long time without a doctor’s prescription, even for minor pain, can cause serious damage to the kidneys. These reduce blood flow to the kidneys.
4. Kidney stones and obstructions
Urinary obstruction can be caused by kidney stones, prostate inflammation (in men), or cancer of the urinary tract. When urine cannot flow out, it puts pressure on the kidneys and damages the nephrons.
5. Chronic infections (UTI)
Urinary tract infections, if not treated on time, can spread to the kidneys (pyelonephritis). Repeated infections can scar the kidneys and affect their function.
6. Lifestyle and diet
Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, excessive salt intake in the diet, and drinking only a small amount of water gradually deteriorate the health of the kidneys.
The main symptoms of kidney disease:
Swelling in the legs and face.
Frequent urination at night.
Seeing or smelling blood in the urine.
Extreme fatigue and shortness of breath.
