Chronic kidney disease can change your life, but with proper management, it is something you live with. Iowa Kidney Physicians in Des Moines, IA have a team of nephrologists who provide the information and services you require if you have chronic kidney disease. One of the issues with kidney disease is often the symptoms are not specific, and they can result from many different conditions.
Your kidneys are complex and that makes them more susceptible to disease. Chronic kidney disease can be the result of another condition you are suffering from. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, and any condition that affects the kidneys, such as polycystic kidney disease, it can lead to chronic kidney disease.
What the Kidneys Do
The kidneys are the filter of the body. They reduce waste from the blood and send it out of the body through the urine. This is a vital function, and without it, you would die. While you can live with one kidney and you can survive with dialysis, the filtering of the blood is essential.
How To Manage Chronic Kidney Disease in Des Moines, IA
Keep your blood pressure normal
High blood pressure is damaging to your kidneys. One of the most essential things you can do to manage kidney disease is to keep your blood pressure within the normal range, which for most people is under 140/90.
Control your blood glucose
Controlling your A1C is vital and for managing your chronic kidney disease, most people will need to keep their A1C under 7 percent.
Get a kidney diet from a professional
Depending on how serious your chronic kidney disease is, you may need to do more than just eat a healthy diet. You may have to restrict some things totally. You need to avoid sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. This means no bananas, dark-colored drinks, or processed meat.
Healthy Choices
Get more exercise, stay at a healthy weight, get enough sleep, take medication as prescribed, and watch OTC medication intake. If you smoke, stop. Work together with your healthcare professional to monitor your kidneys regularly. It is important to find ways to keep stress and depression under control. You may want to try meditation or yoga to help relax.
When you are suffering from chronic kidney disease in Des Moines, IA, you can count on Iowa Kidney Physicians for the management skills you need. Our team of board-certified and fellowship-trained nephrologists will treat your condition. You can call our Methodist Plaza office at (515) 336-6557 or Riverpoint at (515) 243-3161 to make an appointment or visit one of our outreach clinics that bring our kidney care to rural areas. Check our website for locations and days available.