Chennai Kidney Care

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Tips for a healthy kidney and urinary problems in the elderly

Nov 1, 2022

Growing old means that you have just about entered the best phase of your life. You have gone through and conquered various hurdles and experiences to arrive at this point. From now on, it is time to talk about one thing that matters most: your health. In particular, your kidney and bladder health Speaking about kidney health is of utmost importance in today’s day and age, where everything is fast-paced and the lifestyle is quick. This fist-sized organ, the kidneys aids in the removal of waste, water, and toxins from the bloodstream.Additionally, the kidney also helps with maintaining the pH, salt, and potassium in the body. Having a healthy kidney directly affects your health and well-being.

Some of the problems that senior citizens may face with their kidneys include:

  • Diabetes
  • UTIs (urinary tract infections)
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Renovascular disease
  • High blood pressure

The disease of the kidneys is often called a “silent disease,” as there are often no warning signs beforehand. It is important to understand and have relevant information to notice the signs. If there is a

  • Change in blood pressure
  • Blood in your urine
  • Puffiness of the legs and ankles
  • Headaches
  • Shortness of breath

Be sure to get the help you need. Old age is one of the most significant risk factors affecting people’s kidney health.If you’re over 60, have a family history of kidney problems, are obese, or are a smoker, these conditions may affect your kidney health. By catching the signs early and seeking professional help in time, you can beat this silent disease.

Although the disease may seem daunting, in reality, with just a few lifestyle changes, there’s a high chance you can stop kidney disease from becoming something terrifying. To ensure kidney health, the first thing that experts suggest is to have an active lifestyle. 

  • Regular exercise for up to 30 minutes a day will not only help lose those extra kilos but also lower the risk of kidney diseases. 
  • Follow up your exercises with a balanced diet and good hydration. 
  • Focus on incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables into your daily diet. 
  • Avoid any form of saturated fat, sugar, or salt. 

Water not only keeps you hydrated throughout the day, but it also benefits kidney health.Aim to drink at least 3 litres for men and about 2 litres for women.

Experts also suggest curbing the use of over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, which can actually be lethal for your kidneys. It is highly advisable to get a doctor’s opinion and prescription to manage chronic pain rather than self-prescribe. Extra careful monitoring of one’s weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels is also necessary to maintain good kidney health. Another important measure that one has to take is to notice the signs and take precautionary measures. If you feel fatigued, experience increased thirst or urination, or have any risk factors that can lead to kidney disease, getting tested at the earliest possible time is essential.

With age, the kidney, being a part of the urinary system of the body, reduces in function and filtration and also becomes harder, resulting in the blood being filtered more slowly. This directly affects the bladder in the older generation, resulting in various urological problems for the elderly. Some of the most common of these are weak bladder or pelvic floor muscles and urinary incontinence, which is defined as the involuntary leakage of urine. Additionally, the elderly also have to deal with urinary tract infections and LUTS (lower urinary tract infections). It is important to notice the symptoms of bladder problems, like frequent urges to urinate and unpleasant sensations like body aches or vomiting, and take precautions by consulting with your doctor.

In conclusion, the kidney and the bladder work hand in hand. When in perfect condition, the kidney is able to help expel the unwanted from the body, thereby maintaining good health and well-being. This in turn results in a delayed or reduced risk of bladder problems that the elderly face. Taking care of your kidneys with the right diet, proper hydration, an active lifestyle, and regular monitoring of all the risk factors can lead to good kidney health. It is essential that you get an expert opinion when needed and avoid over-the-counter medication to treat any symptoms you might face when it comes to kidney and bladder problems. With a little understanding of your body and the small signs it shows if something is not working correctly, you must consult your doctor and face these problems. Dr Venkatsubramaniam, a robotic surgeon in Chennai, is an expert in treating kidney problems, kidney stones and also supports patients who need dialysis.

Your kidneys work 24/7 for you, so show them love and care.