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Chronic Kidney Disease – Key facts and Remedies

Chronic Kidney Disease – Key facts and Remedies

Also known as chronic kidney failure, chronic kidney disease involves gradually losing kidney function. Kidneys filter excess fluids and waste from the blood through urine. When affected by kidney disease, the organs fail to eliminate the waste, resulting in the accumulation of toxins in the body. One may not experience any symptoms in the early stages. However, if detected, the treatment focuses on slowing the disease progression by addressing the cause.

Causes
Some of the primary causes of chronic kidney disease are:

High blood pressure: Also known as hypertension, this develops when the pressure of the blood against the vessel walls increases. If left unchecked, it might result in kidney disease, strokes, and heart attacks. Conversely, even chronic kidney disease can result in high blood pressure.

Diabetes: One is affected by diabetes when their blood sugar levels are too high. If left unchecked, diabetes might cause damage to various parts of the body, like blood vessels, the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.

Hypertension and diabetes are the primary conditions responsible for approximately two-thirds of all chronic kidney disease cases. Additionally, the following factors also contribute to the risk of developing kidney problems:

  1. Inherited diseases: Conditions like polycystic kidney disease are prevalent causes of kidney failure. PKD leads to large cysts in the kidney that damage the surrounding tissue.
  2. Autoimmune diseases: Here, the immune system works against the body. One such disease is lupus nephritis, which causes inflammation, scarring, or swelling in the small blood vessels that filter the waste from the kidney.
  3. Glomerulonephritis : This is a cluster of diseases that causes inflammation and hampers the kidney’s filtering units.
  4. Urinary tract and kidney abnormalities: This includes malformations, which may develop when the baby is in the womb. For instance, a narrowing might develop, which intervenes with the natural outflow of urine, resulting in it flowing back to the kidney. This might damage the kidneys and cause infections.
  5. Other causes: Obstructions from tumors or kidney stones might also be responsible for kidney disease. Repeated urinary infections or enlarged prostate glands in men might also trigger the condition.

Unusual causes
A few relatively less common causes of the condition in children and adults are:

  1. Hepatitis C and B are related to renal vascular inflammation and glomerulonephritis.
  2. Heavy metal poisoning, like lead poisoning
  3. Pyelonephritis—a prevalent bacterial infection that affects the kidneys
  4. Recurring kidney infections
  5. Interstitial nephritis resulting from long-term use of specific treatment options
  6. Reflux nephropathy or urine backing up into the bladder
  7. Hemolytic-uremic syndrome, wherein the ruptured red blood cells hinder the renal filters

Risk factors
Several factors aggravate the chances of developing chronic kidney disease. While some can be controlled, others may not:

Non-modifiable risk factors:

  1. Race: The risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is approximately four times higher in African-Americans than Caucasian Americans. Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans are also at risk because they are more likely to develop diabetes (a leading cause) than their Caucasian counterparts.
  2. Genetics: Those with a family member affected by ESRD are three to nine times more likely to develop chronic kidney disease.
  3. Age: CKD is more prevalent in people aged 65 or more than in people between 45 and 65 (38% versus 13%) or between 18 and 44 (7%).

Modifiable risk factors

  1. Poor blood glucose control in people with type 1 or 2 diabetes
  2. Unchecked high blood pressure
  3. Type 1 diabetes, where the disease starts before one turns 20

Symptoms
One may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of kidney disease, but as the kidney loses the ability to filter waste from the blood, one might observe the following symptoms:

Muscle cramps
Trouble catching your breath
Feeling less hungry than usual
Itchy skin
Trouble staying or falling asleep
Frothy, bubbly, or foamy-looking urine, indicating the presence of excess protein
Peeing or urinating less or more than usual
Swelling of the feet, ankles, and legs
Throwing up
Feeling sick
Constantly feeling tired or weak

One must immediately consult the doctor if they notice one or more of these symptoms.

Lifestyle changes and natural remedies
While treatment can focus on addressing the underlying condition, it may not stop the disease progression, resulting in end-stage kidney failure. So, here are some natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help one avoid chronic kidney disease and also manage its symptoms:

Stay hydrated: Inadequate water intake is one of the primary causes of kidney diseases. Water helps flush the toxins from the body, so one should have at least eight glasses of water every day to maintain kidney function and overall health. However, if affected by kidney disease, the doctor might recommend reducing one’s water intake. So, one should consult the doctor before making drastic changes to their routine.

Reduce salt intake: If diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, one of the first changes one must make in their meal plans is limiting the salt intake. When the kidneys are not functioning as they should, the additional fluids and sodium might build up in the body, resulting in symptoms like shortness of breath, a spike in blood pressure, puffiness, swollen ankles, fluid build-up around the lungs and heart, or edema.

Monitor the blood pressure: One should keep blood pressure in check, as when blood pressure increases, it aggravates the risk of kidney diseases.

Stay active: Certain lifestyle changes for lowering blood pressure can also help with preventing chronic kidney disease, as hypertension or high blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney diseases. So, one should opt for light exercises to reduce blood pressure and keep it in check. Dedicating at least 30 minutes every day to low-impact activities like jogging, biking, yoga, and walking can make a significant difference.

Reduce protein intake: When digesting a protein-based meal, the body only uses what it needs and filters out the rest with the help of the kidneys. So a protein-rich nutritional regimen makes the kidneys work harder, which should be avoided when dealing with chronic kidney disease.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

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Key Things to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular among those looking to replace missing teeth. These implants are strong and durable and look just like natural teeth. Moreover, the procedure is simple. If you, too, are considering dental implants, it is essential to know all the facts before making an appointment with the dentist. This article discusses a few essential things you need to know about implants, from their types to the benefits they offer. What are dental implants? These are artificial teeth recommended for those with missing or damaged original teeth. The implants are affixed by dentists using a few tools. The look-alikes are made using biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, which blend with the bone over time. Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing teeth. They are often considered the best option for people who cannot restore their teeth function using traditional methods, such as dentures or bridges. However, implants may need to be replaced if they wear down or are moved out of position due to chewing or dental issues. What are the steps involved in affixing dental implants? When considering dental implants, it is essential to understand the steps involved in the process. Dental surgery is complex and delicate and requires careful planning and execution. Here are the steps to be followed: Evaluation During this stage, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine which type of implant best suits you. This includes taking X-rays and performing a physical examination. Teeth extraction If necessary, the doctor will remove all your teeth before beginning the implant process. This is necessary to ensure no debris or other objects get in the way of implant placement. Grating After your teeth have been extracted, the dentist will use a special grater to create tiny grooves in each tooth surface. These grooves help hold the implant firmly in place during installation. Implant placement The implant is placed into one of the grooves using a surgical tool called an incisional guide device (IGD). Fixing the permanent crown Once the implant has been appropriately positioned, a permanent crown can be fixed to it using dental cement or another adhesive. What are the types of dental implants? Endosteal and subperiosteal are the two preferred types: Endosteal implants These are placed directly into the jawbone. Hence, they are recommended for patients with healthy jawbones. The surgery to affix them is typically less invasive than subperiosteal implants, and there is a lower risk of complications. Furthermore, they have a higher success rate than subperiosteal implants. Subperiosteal implants Since these rest on the jawbone, dentists usually recommend subperiosteal implants for patients with no healthy jawbones. The surgery is more invasive than endosteal implants but has a lower risk of failure. Subperiosteal implant surgery may also be an option for patients who cannot have or do not want bone graft surgery to rebuild their jawbone. Implants can also be categorized based on how they are affixed in the mouth. Three examples are single-stage, two-stage, and zygomatic implants. Here is a brief overview of each type: Single-stage implants Single-stage dental implants are the most common. It involves placing a metal screw into the jawbone directly below the tooth. The advantage of this approach is that it is relatively easy and fast to perform, and there is no need for any other surgery or preparation beforehand. Two-stage implants It involves placing an artificial root on top of the existing jawbone using either an endodontic (root canal) or periapical (gum surgery) technique. This root serves as the foundation for the new denture or prosthetic tooth, which is inserted into the implant socket. The procedure is usually more invasive and has a longer healing time. The advantage of this type of procedure is that it provides a strong and stable base for your new tooth or teeth. Zygomatic implants A zygomatic implant supports a dental prosthesis in the upper jaw. It is placed in the bone above the cheekbone and is often used in patients who have lost all or most teeth in the upper jaw. It can provide a solid foundation for artificial teeth. Placing zygomatic implants is generally more complex than other dental implants, requiring special training and experience. Are there any risks associated with getting dental implants? There are risks associated with dental implants, but they are generally minor and can be easily managed. Potential risks include infection, metal fatigue, and implant loosening over time. In most cases, these problems can be corrected by either surgery or implant replacement. It is important to discuss any potential risks with your dentist before getting dental implants to decide if they are something you want. If any concerns need further attention after the implants have been placed in your mouth, replacing them sooner rather than later may be necessary. What are the pre-care and post-care requirements? Having a healthy mouth is crucial before getting implants. If you have an existing gum disease, it will need to be treated before the procedure. After the implants are placed, you must take care of your implant site by avoiding hot beverages for the first 24 hours. It is also important to avoid chewing hard foods, as it can damage the implant. Further, to avoid infection, use your treatments as directed. Finally, see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. By following these simple pre and post-care requirements, you can ensure your dental implants are successful and last many years. The information discussed here will help you determine whether or not this treatment is right for you. Consult a dentist if you have any concerns before signing up. Since implants can be expensive, it is also crucial to compare the rates and choose the best option without compromising quality.

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