Is your kidney safe?

Protect Your Kidneys: Early Detection Can Save Lives

Kidney disease can affect anyone at any age. Many people feel perfectly healthy while their kidneys slowly lose function without any noticeable symptoms. By the time problems appear, the condition may have advanced to the point where regular dialysis or even a kidney transplant becomes necessary.

The best way to prevent serious complications is early detection. So, ask yourself honestly: Are my kidneys healthy?

Know Your Risk Most people think that a blood creatinine test is enough to assess kidney health. In reality, it is not the most important test.

The key screening test is checking for albumin (protein) in the urine. Doctors recommend that even healthy individuals should get this test at least once a year.

It is equally important to regularly monitor blood sugar and blood pressure. Many people have diabetes or hypertension without showing obvious symptoms. If left uncontrolled, both significantly increase the risk of chronic kidney disease. Uncontrolled diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure. Reduced heart function can also raise the risk.

Unfortunately, regular testing is still uncommon in our country, especially among women.

Why Early Awareness Matters Once you know your risks, you can take positive steps — adopting a healthier lifestyle, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, and seeking timely treatment. This not only protects your kidneys but also reduces the chance of other serious diseases.

You should also maintain a healthy weight according to your height. If you have a family history of chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you need to be extra careful. Women planning pregnancy should get a blood creatinine test beforehand.

Painkillers and Kidney Damage Many people regularly take painkillers for headaches, back pain, or joint pain. However, such pain is often caused by poor posture while sitting, working, lifting heavy objects, or sleeping.

While painkillers may give quick relief, long-term or frequent use can seriously damage the kidneys. Similarly, herbal or plant-based medicines prepared without scientific methods can also harm kidney function.

Don’t Ignore Dehydration Dehydration is a major but often overlooked cause of kidney problems. It can lead to acute kidney injury, which can usually be fully reversed if treated early. In severe cases, temporary dialysis may be needed to save a life, but it is not permanent.

Diarrhoea, vomiting, or any condition causing fluid loss can quickly lead to dehydration. Always follow medical advice and use Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) properly.

Keep ORS packets at home so you can act immediately if needed.