World Kidney Day 2019: Kidney problem may occur anytime, signs you shouldn't ignore
New Delhi : Its March 14 today, the World Kidney Day! The day is internationally observed to create awareness about kidney problems, prevention and treatment. It is shocking that close to 2.4 million die of Kidney failure in a year. It is the 6th fastest growing cause of death and almost 850 million people worldwide are at risk of the disease. Kidney problem may occur anytime and most of us ignore the symptoms leading to lifetime risk. Take a look at the signs and symptoms of kidney disease you must know.
Experts say that our kidney fails to perform properly when there is too much protein in our urine. Mostly, when a person is above the age of 60 and have family history kidney disease or are suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes, then he/she must get tests to check if kidneys are working well.
Symptoms of Kidney disease
- Fatigue, lack of energy, lack of concentration
- Weakness and anaemia
- Dry and itchy skin
- Frequent urination
- Sleeplessness
- Blood in urine
- Swollen feet and ankles
- Muscle cramps
- Foamy urine
- Poor appetite
- Puffy eyes
Besides knowing the kidney disease symptoms, it is also necessary to know the top functions our kidney performs
1) Kidney regulates fluid and electrolyte balance by controlling the value and consumption of urine.
2) The kidneys have a major role in excretion of a number of end products of metabolism that is waste for the body.
3) Kidney also defines the route for elimination of foreign substances from the body including chemicals, drugs, and pesticides ingested in the food.
4) Kidney secrets water and sodium and an enzyme called renin that activates the renin-angiotensin system.
5) Kidney plays a pivotal role in the regulation of red blood cells (RBC) mass and red volume by controlling the plasma volume.
6) Kidney produces the active form of vitamin D, calcitriol. Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating body levels of calcium and phosphorus, and the mineralization of bone.
7) The kidney excretes hydrogen ions into the urine and reabsorbs bicarbonate from the urine and helps in maintaining the acid-base balance.
8) The kidney helps in retrieving as much glucose as possible, rendering the urine virtually glucose free.
