As the body starts to age, so does everything inside of it. While people of all ages are susceptible to kidney disease, the likelihood of developing a serious renal condition increases as you pass the age of 60. In fact, a Johns Hopkins study showed that over 50% of senior citizens over the age of 75 have some symptoms of kidney disease.
It’s clear that aging and kidney disease are related, but what steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood of developing issues with the kidney? While older folks may be at a bigger risk of kidney disease, there are preventative measures that can be used to prolong the life and health of your kidneys. It all starts with scheduling an appointment with your kidney specialist in Los Angeles!
The likelihood of kidney and urinary tract problems grows as you get older, but that doesn’t mean you are doomed to a future of bad or failing health. Staying aware of the different conditions you may be at risk for can help you find the best treatments and preventative care. First, it’s important for you to understand the biggest age-related kidney problems to look out for:
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Urinary tract infections
Incontinence
Renovascular disease
Swelling and inflammation of the kidneys
Hereditary and polycystic kidney disease
Depending on your family and personal history of health, you may have an increased likelihood of developing the above issues. Kidney disease is both a diagnosis and a symptom of related conditions, such as diabetes and problems with the blood.
There are specific age-related risk factors for kidney disease that become more common as one gets older. These risks are especially important to look out for if you are over the age of 60:
Smoking
Acute kidney injury
Obesity
High blood pressure
Past heart problems
Stroke
Family history of kidney failure
Now that you are aware of the biggest risk factors as you age, it’s time to start thinking about how to prevent them.
There are quite a few things that can be done to ensure your kidneys - and the rest of your body - is in tip-top shape. If you have a preexisting condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, you should take extra steps to keep your kidneys healthy. Make sure to get in touch with a kidney specialist to ensure that you are taking the right steps to improve the health of your renal system.
If you have a history of drinking and smoking, it is critical that you reduce your habits as they can be detrimental to your kidney systems. Make sure to schedule regular doctor’s visits if you have a history of high blood pressure, you are on ACE inhibitors, you take insulin injections, or you need additional help monitoring your blood sugar. These are all risk factors that can increase the likelihood of kidney disease as you age.
At the office of Dr. Gura, we offer advanced and innovative treatment solutions to patients struggling with kidney problems. Whether you are at the beginning or advanced stages of kidney disease, there are multiple options available to you. Along with kidney dialysis, we also offer top-of-the-line wearable artificial kidney treatments to help patients remain independent and comfortable during crucial treatments.
As you experience the signs of aging, keep track of your internal systems. If you are dealing with issues with your blood and your diet, get in touch with your internist right away. Your kidney health is vital to your continued happy health, and our expert team can keep you comfortable well into your later years.
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