Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common and increasing. One in 8 adults have CKD and one in 3 of those over 75years. Stage 3 CKD rarely causes symptoms and doesn’t have a big impact on quality of life. It is very rare to develop kidney failure that would need dialysis or kidney transplantation, but it is valuable to know as it might change the medication we prescribe and having CKD increases your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Over the last few years we have tried to identify patients with CKD so that we can take care of conditions that contribute to kidney damage as well as reducing any other factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
We monitor patients with CKD stage 3 with annual blood and urine tests. We look for and treat risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
To keep your kidneys healthy:
· Stop smoking.
· Avoid certain drugs especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen
· Maintain a healthy weight and eat plenty of vegetables and fruit. Reduce red meat and processed foods especially those with a high salt content
· Drink alcohol in moderation (no more than 14 units per week)
· Take regular exercise
· Have regular checks for blood and urine tests and blood pressure