Kidneys are keeping the body healthy and well-functioning daily. They serve as a filtration of toxins and wastes from the blood and balance the fluids. Yet, these are only a few of their functions and they do so much that people do not notice until something goes wrong. Keeping the kidneys healthy is important.
When kidneys fail to perform its function, consult with the right kidney specialists at South Texas Renal Care Group to diagnose the condition.
Importance of kidney functions
Kidneys are two small organs in the body with big jobs. The functions of the kidneys are:
- filter blood
- remove waste
- balance fluids
- control blood pressure
Once the kidney fails to work or is not working properly, it leads to serious health issues. Thus, kidney care services are important.
Preventive kidney care
Preventing kidney problems is the first step an individual can take, which includes regular health check-ups. People at risk of kidney issues should have regular checkups when they have health issues like:
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- family history of kidney disease
Doctors can do simple tests, such as:
- urine tests
- blood pressure checks
- blood tests
These tests served as a monitoring of how well the kidneys functioned. Preventive care does not merely focus on regular checkups, it includes:
- healthy diet
- exercise
- drinking plenty of water
Diagnosis and monitoring
When a person has signs of kidney problems, diagnosis is the next step. Nephrologists order tests to check kidney function. The Glomerular Filtration Rate is a device used to show how well the kidneys are filtering blood. Imaging tests are also performed to help doctors see the condition and size of the kidneys, such as:
- Ultrasounds
- CT scans
Patients are closely monitored to prevent the disease from becoming worse after being diagnosed.
Medication and lifestyle management
Lifestyle changes and medications control kidney diseases at the early stage of development, which includes managing other health conditions, such as:
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- swelling
Dietitians create meal plans to reduce consumption of the following:
- salt
- protein
- potassium
It helps lighten the load on the kidneys, preventing kidney damage. Quitting smoking can harm the kidneys and it is also a part of this care.
Dialysis services
When kidneys reach the stage where they cannot work well, dialysis is needed. Dialysis is a kidney treatment that removes the body contains that prevents the kidneys can no longer function, such as:
- waste
- salt
- excess water
Dialysis has two main types, namely:
- Hemodialysis. It is the most common dialysis performed at the dialysis center. The availability of the machine helps the dialysis be performed appropriately.
- Peritoneal dialysis. The type of dialysis performed at home, which uses the belly lining to filter blood.
Kidney transplant services
Kidney transplant is a surgery recommended for some patients with kidney problems. The kidney transplant services include:
- finding a kidney match
- preparing the patient for surgery
- providing post-transplant care
The kidney transplant procedure is performed carefully to prevent infection and rejection in the kidney transplant procedure.
Conclusion
Dialysis and transplant are the kidney care services offered by the kidney care group to live with healthy kidneys.