3 kidney risks that the elderly need to pay special attention to

As we age, kidney function can decline. Remarkably, this decline often develops slowly and without obvious symptoms.

Fiona Loud, a UK-based expert, has outlined three common kidney problems in the elderly and given practical advice on how to protect kidney health as you age, according to The Irish News US (UK).

Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

Although chronic kidney disease can occur at any age, it is more common in people over 60. This is partly because kidney function tends to decline with age. This decline is a normal part of aging, but it occurs at different rates for different people.

“Kidneys filter blood throughout the day, helping to regulate blood pressure, support bone health, and help create red blood cells. However, like most other bodily functions, kidney function gradually declines as we age,” Loud explains.

As we age, kidney function declines.

PHOTO: AI

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes of chronic kidney disease. If you have either of these conditions, over time they can put extra pressure on the blood vessels in your kidneys, causing kidney function to decline.

“Kidney disease is often called a silent disease because the symptoms are often not obvious in the early stages. Two common symptoms that gradually appear are fatigue and shortness of breath, but they can also be symptoms of other diseases,” Loud emphasized.

Acute kidney injury

According to expert Loud, older people are more susceptible to acute and chronic kidney damage than younger people.

Acute kidney injury is a rapid decline in kidney function. It can happen to anyone, but is more common in vulnerable groups such as infants, young children or people over 65, often accompanied by other complications.

“Persistent stomach infections or pain can also potentially cause acute kidney injury,” says Loud.

Kidney damage due to drugs

Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can negatively affect the kidneys.

High doses of NSAIDs can be harmful to the kidneys. People with impaired kidney function, heart disease, or high blood pressure should avoid using NSAIDs unless specifically advised by their doctor.

Tips to keep your kidneys healthy as you age

Here are some top tips on how to keep your kidneys healthy as you age:

Stay hydrated : Water helps your kidneys flush out waste, preventing the formation of harmful crystals and stones. “Stay hydrated and pay attention to the color of your urine. If it’s light in color, that’s good, but if it’s dark, that’s usually a sign that you’re not drinking enough water,” Loud says.

Water helps the kidneys eliminate waste, preventing the formation of crystals and stones that are harmful to the kidneys.

Photo: AI

Regular kidney check-ups: People with diabetes or high blood pressure should have their kidneys checked every year. Even if you don't have these two conditions, if you are concerned about your kidney health, you can still see your doctor and have relevant tests done.

Talk to your doctor about medications : In addition to non-steroidal drugs, there are some antibiotics that are not good for the kidneys. Therefore, people with chronic kidney disease should consult their doctor to ensure that the prescribed medications are appropriate.

Eat a balanced diet : A balanced diet can help maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

People should eat more vegetables and foods that are good for the cardiovascular system, because “taking care of heart health is also taking care of kidney health,” according to expert Loud.

Additionally, salt makes the kidneys work harder and the pressure on them can gradually increase, so a low-salt diet is also recommended.

Physical activity: Staying physically active is important for maintaining kidney health, helping to control risk factors associated with kidney disease, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/3-nguy-co-ve-than-ma-nguoi-lon-tuoi-can-dac-biet-luu-y-185250705233426045.htm