How To Work On Keeping My Kidneys Healthy?

I tell you when it rains, it pours. I have had several other chronic illnesses that I have had for years. On a visit to the kidney doctor, he was going over my medications. He reminded me that I had to take better care of myself. \I have high blood pressure which could cause swelling in my arms and legs. I also have type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol which are both under control. He was very concerned that having this illness could cause heart disease and a stroke. I am more at high risk when you add chronic kidney disease to my already long list.

Making some lifestyle changes

I am 65 years old now. I guess it’s too late to ask why I didn’t watch my blood pressure and diabetes many years ago. Hindsight is 20/20, now I’m beginning to understand my situation after it happens. But the good news is that I can slow down the process of some of these illnesses. My doctor has told me that the kidneys help remove waste products and filter my blood. I didn’t know that they help control our blood pressure.

Since my diagnosis, I have had to make some serious lifestyle changes in my life. I wasn’t much of a water drinker, but now I aim to get down 4 bottles a day. I know for some that’s not a lot, but it’s a start for me. I am a diehard soda drinker. But now I know the water will help flush out waste products, I need this. I was already eating pretty well because of my diabetes, but I do need to find more ways to cut back on my salt intake. Trying to find the right herbs and spices is tricky too. When you are so used to heavy salt, herbs and spices just don’t get it.

I haven’t had a drink of alcohol or smoked in over 25 years, but in the back of my mind, I wondered if I did damage before I stopped those habits. My doctor has me monitoring my blood pressure and blood sugar because high levels can damage over time. I checked these regularly to make sure they were under control and not too high.

Getting regular checkups

Because I have so much going on I make sure to get regular checkups with my doctor to detect any kidney problems when they are easier to treat. You never think when you’re younger that watching your health is a good thing. Keep those kidneys healthy, my friends.

One thing I have learned on this journey is that I need to keep my kidneys healthy. I know it will take work, but we can do it. I have heard people say over the years that they have no regrets. I do wish I had taken better care of myself. I don’t think it’s too late now, but I do have to work hard at it.

Just remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your kidneys. As we know, preventive maintenance is the key. Let’s start taking care of our kidneys today, because if we don’t who will?