Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is a major health issue in the United States, particularly with African-Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans and seniors. The National Kidney Foundation estimates that more than 26 million adult Americans suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Causes of kidney disease, especially in men
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- a blow to the kidneys
- a close family member with kidney disease
- low blood volume due to blood loss
- certain medicines, like aspirin and ibuprofen, if taken regularly over a long period of time
- dehydration from loss of body fluid (vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, fever)
- not drinking enough fluids
- medication that may cause excessive water loss (diuretics)
- abnormal blood flow to and from the kidneys due to obstruction of the renal artery or vein
Symptoms to look for
- urinary tract infections
- shooting pain in the small of the back
- sexual problems: erectile dysfunction, fatigue, low sex drive
- lethargy, general weakness
- body changes: weight gain, facial or body hair in strange places, breath and body odor, skin problems
How to prevent kidney disease
- lower your high blood pressure
- manage your diabetes
- eat less salt
- exercise more
- take your medicines as prescribed
- get blood and urine tests to check for kidney disease
