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Optimizing Your Morning Hydration: Expert Advice on Water IntakeThe debate over the optimal amount of water to consume f...
09/10/2025

Optimizing Your Morning Hydration: Expert Advice on Water Intake

The debate over the optimal amount of water to consume first thing in the morning is common, often leading to conflicting advice. While starting your day with water is widely recognized as beneficial, excessive intake can put undue stress on your kidneys. Understanding the right balance is crucial for maintaining kidney health and overall well-being.

The Morning Hydration Myth vs. Reality

It is considered healthy to drink water upon waking, but many people adopt habits that may be counterproductive. For instance, consuming 2-3 bottles of water (excessive volume) immediately after waking can be detrimental to the kidneys. This sudden, large volume can temporarily overload the system.

Instead, doctors often recommend a more moderate approach: drinking 1-2 glasses of warm water in the morning. This gentle intake aids digestion and rehydrates the body without causing sudden pressure on the renal system.

Daily Water Requirements and Kidney Function

To truly keep your kidneys healthy, focus on your total daily fluid intake rather than just the morning volume. Medical guidance often suggests consuming around 3 liters of water throughout the day.

This specific recommendation is tied to a vital health indicator: urine output. To ensure the body effectively flushes out accumulated waste, you should aim to produce approximately 2 liters of urine daily. Consistent fluid intake ensures the kidneys can process and eliminate waste products efficiently.

Expert Recommendation

The key to healthy hydration is moderation and consistency. Avoid the habit of "chugging" large volumes of water at once. Instead, you must drink your 3 liters of water throughout the day in portions. Consult a doctor or nutritionist to determine the precise daily water requirement for your body, which may vary based on your activity level, climate, and overall health.

Stay informed about healthy lifestyle choices to support your body's vital organs.

Central Government Issues Advisory On "Judicious" Use Of Cough Syrup After Children Killed In Rajasthan and Madhya Prade...
04/10/2025

Central Government Issues Advisory On "Judicious" Use Of Cough Syrup After Children Killed In Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh Due To Alleged Use Of Medicines

The central government has issued an advisory on the “judicious” use of cough syrups – a development that comes days after the consumption of the medicine allegedly killed children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

In its circular, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) said cough syrups were not recommended for children below 5 years of age and that most acute cough illnesses in children “are self-limiting and often resolve without pharmacological intervention”.

“This advisory reiterates the judicious prescribing and dispensing of cough syrups for children,” it said. “Cough and cold medications should not be prescribed or dispensed to children under 2 years. These are generally not recommended for ages below 5 years and above that, any use should follow careful clinical evaluation with close supervision and strict adherence to appropriate dosing, the shortest effective duration and avoiding multiple drugs combinations. Further, the public may also be sensitized regarding adherence to prescription by the doctors,” it said.

It further said that non-pharmacological measures, “including adequate hydration, rest, supportive measures should be the first-line approach”.

“All healthcare facilities and clinical establishments must ensure procurement and dispensing of products manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices and formulated with pharmaceutical-grade excipients. Sensitisation of prescribers and dispensers across public and private sectors is essential to uphold these standards of care,” it said.

It goes to say: “It is requested that the all State/UT Health Departments, District Health Authorities, and all Clinical Establishments/healthcare facilities under your jurisdiction should implement and disseminate this advisory across government dispensaries, PHCS, CHCs, district hospitals, and medical institutions”.

The death of two children -- Samrat Jatav, 2, from Bharatpur on September 22 and Nityansh Sharma, 5, from Sikar on September 28 -- from allegedly consuming Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP 13.5 mg/5 ml has sparked a row, prompting the government to order a probe.

Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a common over-the-counter cough suppressant whose side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, agitation and confusion. It is generally not recommended for very young children.

This particular cough syrup -- Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP 13.5 mg/5 ml – was manufactured by a Jaipur-based company.

As pressure mounts, the state’s health department refuted allegations of the children’s families that the cough syrup was prescribed at government hospitals. In its statement Thursday, the department said that the medicine is typically not to be prescribed by doctors and isn’t recommended for children under the state’s protocol, and alleged that parents administered the medicine "without consulting doctors".

The government has also instituted a three-member probe panel and suspended the sale of the medicines, sending samples of the cough medicine for testing. A doctor and a pharmacist have been suspended at a primary health centre in Bharatpur, where one of the deaths was reported.

In Madhya Pradesh, nine children have died after the cough syrups allegedly led to kidney ailments in them.

A joint team comprising representatives from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), National Institute of Virology (NIV), Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), among others, visited the site in Madhya Pradesh to collect samples of various cough syrups, the health ministry said earlier in the day.

It noted none of the tested syrup samples contained Diethylene Glycol (DEG) or Ethylene Glycol (EG) -- contaminants that are known to cause serious kidney injury.

"According to the test results, none of the samples contained Diethylene Glycol (DEG) or Ethylene Glycol (EG), contaminants that are known to cause serious kidney injury," the ministry said.

The Madhya Pradesh State Food and Drug Administration (SFDA) also tested three samples and confirmed the absence of DEG/EG, it added.

On reports of the deaths in Rajasthan, the ministry clarified that the cough syrup does not contain Propylene Glycol -- a possible source of DEG/EG contamination, it said.

Additionally, the product under reference is a Dextromethorphan-based formulation, which is not recommended for paediatric use, it said.

Is Your Copper Water Bottle Good for You? What You Need to KnowCopper water bottles have become a popular trend, praised...
25/09/2025

Is Your Copper Water Bottle Good for You? What You Need to Know

Copper water bottles have become a popular trend, praised for their aesthetics and supposed health benefits like improved immunity and digestion. While copper is an essential mineral, it's crucial to understand the risks of consuming too much of it.

The Double-Edged Sword of Copper

Our bodies need a small amount of copper for important functions like creating red blood cells and maintaining nerve function. However, an excess of copper can disrupt this delicate balance. Since copper bottles can increase the amount of copper you're ingesting, it's important to be mindful of your intake. In fact, a recent case highlighted a serious instance of copper poisoning after someone consumed lemon water that had been heated in a copper vessel.

The Dangers of Copper Overload

Consuming too much copper can lead to a range of health problems, from mild to severe. Early signs of copper toxicity include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, stomach cramps, and a metallic taste in your mouth.

If left unchecked, prolonged exposure to high levels of copper can lead to more serious issues, including liver and kidney damage, and even neurological problems. Severe symptoms might include jaundice, intense abdominal pain, and persistent headaches. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Simple Steps for Safe Use

The good news is that you can significantly reduce these risks by taking a few simple precautions:

Choose wisely. Opt for high-quality bottles that have a barrier between the copper and the water.
Clean regularly. Regularly clean your bottle with a clean cloth to prevent buildup.
Don't store for too long. Avoid storing water in the bottle for extended periods, especially hot water or acidic drinks like lemon juice.

Remember, most people get all the copper they need from a balanced diet, including foods like nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and whole grains. Improperly maintained copper bottles can do more harm than good, potentially damaging your stomach, intestines, and liver. By being mindful of these risks and following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy the aesthetic appeal of your copper bottle without compromising your health.

Say Goodbye To Reading Glasses? Scientists Develop Eye Drops That May Restore VisionUsing glasses could be a thing of th...
19/09/2025

Say Goodbye To Reading Glasses? Scientists Develop Eye Drops That May Restore Vision

Using glasses could be a thing of the past as scientists have developed special eye drops that could help people with long-sightedness. A new study presented at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) in Copenhagen showed that people could read extra lines on eye test charts after using the drops and sustained the improvement for two years.

Common among people in their 40s and older, presbyopia is a form of long-sightedness which occurs when the lens of the eye becomes less flexible, leading to difficulty in focusing on close-up objects. Glasses or surgery can fix the issue, but many find wearing spectacles a nuisance and not everyone can afford an operation. The new eye drops, however, might provide a simple solution.

The study involved 766 people who used the drops containing pilocarpine and diclofenac, twice a day, usually upon waking and around six hours later, according to a report in The Guardian. The participants were divided into three groups, with each having a fixed dose of diclofenac, but the concentration of pilocarpine varied.

Study findings
An hour after the drops were administered, the patients showed an average improvement of 3.45 lines on the Jaeger eye chart (the measurement used for testing near visual acuity).

“Our most significant result showed rapid and sustained improvements in near vision for all three concentrations," said Dr Giovanna Benozzi, the director of the Centre for Advanced Research for Presbyopia in Buenos Aires

“Impressively, 99 per cent of 148 patients in the one per cent pilocarpine group reached optimal near vision and were able to read two or more extra lines.”

In the two per cent group, 69 per cent of the 248 patients were able to read three or more extra lines, and in the three per cent group, 84 per cent of 370 patients could read three or more extra lines.

While the common side effects were temporary dim vision, irritation and headaches when the drops were administered, the study findings highlighted that it offers a safe, effective and well-tolerated alternative to traditional eyesight management.

Experts welcomed the findings but added that broader, long-term, multi-centre studies were required to confirm the safety and effectiveness.

Millions Have Diabetes Without Knowing It, Most Lack Proper Blood Sugar Control       Diabetes is silently affecting mil...
18/09/2025

Millions Have Diabetes Without Knowing It, Most Lack Proper Blood Sugar Control


Diabetes is silently affecting millions around the world, yet many don’t even realize they have it. A new global study reveals a startling truth: nearly half of all people with diabetes are unaware of their condition, and among those who are diagnosed, only a small fraction manage it effectively.

This hidden health crisis is particularly concerning among young adults, who are often overlooked in screening programs despite facing long-term complications if the disease goes unchecked.

The Global Picture
Researchers from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington, working with a network of international collaborators, analyzed diabetes care in 204 countries and territories from 2000 to 2023. Their findings were sobering:

In 2023, 44% of people aged 15 and older with diabetes were unaware they had the disease.
Among those diagnosed, 91% were receiving some form of medication, but only 42% had their blood sugar under proper control.
Overall, this means just one in five people with diabetes globally manage the condition optimally.
Regional Differences
The study also uncovered major disparities between regions:
High-income North America has the highest diagnosis rates.
High-income Asia Pacific excels in providing treatment to those diagnosed.
Southern Latin America leads in achieving proper blood sugar control among treated patients.
Conversely, Central sub-Saharan Africa faces the largest gaps, with fewer than 20% of people aware they have diabetes.
Why This Matters
Diabetes isn’t just about high blood sugar — it’s a major risk factor for heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and other serious complications. Undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes silently damages the body over years, often without obvious symptoms until the complications appear.

Lauryn Stafford, lead author of the study, warns: "By 2050, 1.3 billion people may be living with diabetes. If nearly half are unaware of their condition, it could become a silent epidemic."

The Need for Action
The study highlights an urgent need for:

Better screening programs, especially for young adults who often slip through the cracks.
Improved access to medications and glucose-monitoring tools, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Stronger public awareness campaigns to help people recognize early signs of diabetes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a target for 2030: 80% of people with diabetes should be clinically diagnosed. Achieving this goal could prevent millions of complications and save countless lives.

A Growing Crisis
Diabetes is already a leading cause of preventable illness worldwide. Without stronger interventions, the numbers are expected to rise rapidly, creating a global health burden that will affect economies, healthcare systems, and families alike.

The study, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, serves as a wake-up call: it’s not enough to treat diabetes after symptoms appear. Early detection, proper treatment, and continuous management are essential if we hope to curb this silent epidemic. The findings from the global diabetes study were published in the peer-reviewed journal The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.

Millions are living with diabetes without knowing it, and most of those who are diagnosed struggle to manage it properly. Urgent action is needed now to screen, treat, and educate populations worldwide before the crisis grows even larger.

19 dead in 9 months, ‘brain-eating amoeba’ has Kerala scrambling for answers. What we know so far    Thiruvananthapuram:...
18/09/2025

19 dead in 9 months, ‘brain-eating amoeba’ has Kerala scrambling for answers. What we know so far

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is on high alert after an alarming surge in fatalities caused by cases of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a deadly brain infection caused by brain eating amoeba. It has claimed 9 lives this month, and a total of 19 in the last nine months, including a four-month-old baby.

So far this year, the state has confirmed 69 cases of the infection in various districts.

Brain eating amoeba (or Naegleria fowleri), called so because it infects the brain and destroys brain tissue, is a free-living amoeba, a unicellular organism that typically thrives in warm freshwater lakes, rivers, and hot springs. In rare cases, brain eating amoeba has also been reported in people exposed to water in swimming pools which were not chlorinated properly.

Early symptoms of PAM can include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting but the condition progresses rapidly and many people with PAM die within 1 to 18 days after symptoms begin. It usually leads to coma and death after 5 days, experts say.

Globally, the fatality rate is over 90 percent, but in Kerala, it is relatively lower at under 30 percent. However, it is still alarmingly high and has put the administration on its toes.

Want To Live Long, Remain Young Then Quit Milk Tea Right Now!    Since childhood we’ve heard people complaining that con...
17/09/2025

Want To Live Long, Remain Young Then Quit Milk Tea Right Now!


Since childhood we’ve heard people complaining that consuming tea can make your skin darker. In spite of these myths, tea is one of the most popular beverages of India, and no matter how the climate is or what the time is, people love their tea sessions. But overconsumption of anything can lead to negative effects, which is the same in the case of drinking tea.

When you go overboard with your consumption level, it can mess with your skin in a not-so-good manner. Let’s see what can go wrong if you’re on a chai binge.

Acne breakouts: Many individuals have experienced acne breakouts, which can be a result of hormonal imbalances triggered by the caffeine present in tea. If you start noticing the changes after consuming your tea, then start cutting back.

Leads to premature ageing: The antioxidants present in tea can be beneficial for your skin. But when you start consuming it more than usual, the caffeine can dehydrate your skin over time, contributing to the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

Sensitive skin: Excessive caffeine consumption may lead to increased redness or irritation, heightening the issues of skin sensitivity. Also, if you have eczema or rosacea, then try cutting down more and consuming tea once in a while.

Dehydrated skin: The caffeine presence in tea is diuretic and causes an increase in urination, which can also lead to dehydration. Therefore, if you don’t compensate by drinking enough water, your skin will start appearing dry, less radiant, and flaky.

Abrupt skin texture: Excessive consumption of chai can lead to digestive discomfort because of its strong compounds like caffeine and tannins, which can irritate the stomach lining, resulting in indigestion, upset stomach, and acid reflux. These issues can indirectly affect your facial skin’s lining, resulting in breakouts, pimples, and abnormal skin texture.

Paneer side effects: Rise in blood sugar, weight gain, cholesterol risks, and morePaneer, also known as Indian cottage c...
13/09/2025

Paneer side effects: Rise in blood sugar, weight gain, cholesterol risks, and more

Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a popular dairy product widely consumed in South Asian households. Valued for its high protein, calcium, and phosphorus content, paneer supports bone strength, muscle growth, and satiety, making it a staple in vegetarian diets. Despite these nutritional benefits, excessive paneer intake can have drawbacks. Overconsumption may cause digestive discomfort, weight gain, cholesterol imbalance, and even kidney stone formation in some individuals. To enjoy paneer’s health advantages while avoiding risks, moderation is essential. Including paneer in a balanced diet ensures you receive its nutritional value without harmful side effects.

8 side effects of eating too much paneer
According to health experts, paneer can be a nutritious food when eaten in moderation, but large portions or poor-quality paneer can trigger health concerns. Below are the key side effects to be aware of:

1. Digestive problems and bloating

Paneer is a dairy product, and those with lactose intolerance may struggle to digest it. Symptoms can include bloating, gas, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea. Eating raw paneer in excess can also feel heavy on the stomach and cause indigestion. Cooking paneer lightly with spices such as turmeric or ginger may aid digestion.

2. Weight gain from high calories

Full-fat paneer is calorie-dense and rich in fats. Consuming large quantities without balancing energy expenditure can lead to gradual weight gain. This is particularly relevant for individuals trying to manage body weight or following a sedentary lifestyle.

3. Increased cholesterol and heart health risks

Paneer is high in saturated fats, and overconsumption may raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease and related cardiovascular problems. A review published in Advances in Nutrition highlights that saturated fat from dairy is directly linked to elevated LDL levels, a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In addition, store-bought paneer may contain added salt, which, if consumed regularly, can contribute to high blood pressure and further strain heart health.

4. Nutrient imbalance from over-reliance

Relying heavily on paneer as the primary protein source can reduce dietary diversity. This may result in lower fibre intake and a lack of vitamins and minerals from vegetables, pulses, and whole grains. A balanced diet with varied protein sources is vital for overall health.

5. Allergic reactions to dairy proteins

According to StatPearls, cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is an immune-mediated reaction to milk proteins, with casein and whey identified as the primary allergens. Since paneer is rich in both casein and whey, it may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms can include rashes, itching, and swelling, and in rare cases may escalate to severe responses. People with known milk allergies are advised to avoid paneer altogether.

6. Poor-quality or adulterated paneer risks

In some markets, adulterated paneer is sold with added starch, hydrogenated oils, or other fillers. Consuming such products can cause digestive distress and long-term organ damage. Spoiled paneer, if improperly stored, may also cause food poisoning, with symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea.

7. Blood sugar impact in diabetics

Although paneer is naturally low in carbohydrates and can support blood sugar management, overconsumption, particularly when paired with a high-fat diet, may disrupt glucose control in people with diabetes or insulin resistance. A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that moderate dairy consumption (25–65 g/day) was linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, but this protective effect plateaued when intake exceeded certain levels. This suggests that while paneer can be beneficial in moderation, portion control and dietary balance are essential to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar.

Doctor says these 8 symptoms could mean your kidneys are failing: Are you at risk of kidney disease?      Kidneys play a...
12/09/2025

Doctor says these 8 symptoms could mean your kidneys are failing: Are you at risk of kidney disease?


Kidneys play an essential role in maintaining overall health. These vital organs are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, balancing fluids in the body and regulating important minerals like sodium, potassium and calcium.

According to a research, early identification and management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are crucial for those at high risk. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sonusing Patil, DNB (INT.MED) DNB (NEPHRO), Transplant Physician and Consultant Nephrologist at NephroPlus, shared, “Regular monitoring of eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) and UACR (urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio) at check-ups, at least annually, helps in early diagnosis. Early detection can slow eGFR decline and improve management. For example, starting treatment when eGFR is 75 mL/min/1.73 m² could delay kidney failure by over 15 years.”

Why early detection matters
Dr Sonusing Patil revealed, “Early detection can help slow the progression of the disease, preventing further damage and improving long-term health outcomes. With timely treatment, kidney disease can often be managed effectively, and in some cases, its progression can be halted. Additionally, early diagnosis allows patients to take steps to improve kidney function and avoid the need for more invasive treatments such as dialysis or a kidney transplant.”

Key early symptoms of kidney disease
Recognising the signs and symptoms of kidney disease early can make a significant difference in the management of the condition. According to Dr Sonusing Patil, following are some common early warning signs to be aware of -

1. Fatigue and weakness: A decrease in kidney function can result in a collection of toxins in the body, leading to ongoing fatigue and weakness. Furthermore, kidney diseases can cause anaemia, which further contributes to feelings of tiredness.

2. Changes in urination
Alterations in urination patterns are one of the most noticeable early signs of kidney disease. These changes can include:

Increased urination, especially at night (nocturia)
Dark, rusty, or brown-coloured urine
Foamy or bubbly urine, indicating the presence of protein
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
4. Swollen ankles and feet: Reduced kidney function may result in sodium retention, leading to swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, and face.

5. Itchy skin and puffiness around the eyes

As waste products accumulate in the body due to poor kidney function, it can lead to severe itching, particularly on the legs, arms, and back. Additionally, damaged kidney filters allow protein to leak into the urine, causing fluid retention and puffiness, especially around the eyes.

6. Puffiness around the eyes: The presence of protein in the urine, a result of damaged kidney filters, can cause puffiness around the eyes.

7. Loss of appetite: Kidney disease can lead to nausea and vomiting, which may decrease appetite and even result in weight loss.

8. Muscle cramps: Imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium, calcium, and potassium can interfere with muscle and nerve functioning, resulting in cramps.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

A single piece of chewing gum releases thousands of microplastics when it is chewed.    We rarely stop to think about wh...
12/09/2025

A single piece of chewing gum releases thousands of microplastics when it is chewed.

We rarely stop to think about what really happens when we chew a piece of gum. Beyond the taste or the elastic texture, that simple gesture could be releasing in our mouth tiny plastic particles that we do not see, we do not notice, but they are there. A recent study by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has revealed that each gram of chewing gum may contain up to 600 microplastics, released in a matter of minutes as we chew it.

What did the researchers discover?
To reach these conclusions, the scientists analyzed ten brands of chewing gum, both synthetic and natural. The result was surprising: in all cases microplastics were detected to be released when they came into contact with saliva.

On average, they found about 100 particles per gram of chewing gum, although some samples reached up to 600 particles per gram. If we take into account that a piece usually weighs between 2 and 6 grams, we are talking about up to 3,000 microplastics released per unit, in just a few minutes.

The study also observed that 94% of these particles are released during the first eight minutes of chewing. In other words, those who tend to change chewing gum quickly end up exposed to more plastic fragments than those who prolong the chewing of a single piece.

Where do these microplastics come from?
Although it may be thought that chewing gums made with natural resins are free of this problem, the study proved otherwise. Contamination can occur during the manufacturing process, packaging or storage of the product, regardless of the base used.

Does it pose a health risk?
To date, the exact effects that microplastics can have on the human organism are not yet known. Some studies relate them to inflammatory processes, oxidative stress and possible cellular alterations, although research is still under development. What is of particular concern to the scientific community is their ability to accumulate discreetly and constantly in our tissues, with small doses coming from different everyday sources: bottled water, seafood, the air we breathe and now also chewing gum.

Although the amount ingested from chewing gum is relatively low compared to other routes, this cumulative effect - not yet fully quantified - keeps the issue under close scrutiny by researchers. There is no cause for alarm, but there are good reasons to continue to observe with caution and attention.

What can we do to reduce exposure?
It is not necessary to eliminate chewing gum from our daily lives, but some simple habits can help minimize the intake of microplastics:

Moderate consumption: avoid chewing gum continuously throughout the day.
Extend chewing time: prolonging the use of a single piece reduces the release of additional particles.
Prioritize quality brands: opting for manufacturers that offer greater control over their processes and raw materials can reduce exposure.
What you don't see (but is) in every piece of chewing gum
UCLA study expands the invisible map of microplastics in our daily lives. While science continues to investigate their possible long-term effects, we can choose to make small, more conscious everyday choices. Because sometimes, even a simple piece of chewing gum reminds us of the extent to which we are surrounded by details - even microscopic ones - in our diet.

How to check if your kidneys are healthy          Kidneys are vital organs that play an integral role in your body. They...
06/09/2025

How to check if your kidneys are healthy

Kidneys are vital organs that play an integral role in your body. They filter waste, regulate fluids, and support numerous bodily functions. If proper care is not taken, it can lead to several diseases.

What makes it worse is that kidney diseases can develop silently, and show symptoms only when it is advanced. Regular monitoring and awareness of risk factors can help ensure your kidneys remain healthy. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about kidney health, symptoms to watch for, and tests to assess kidney function.

Kidney diseases

Any condition that impairs the ability of the kidneys to function properly is considered a kidney disease. These range from kidney infections to chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney stones, glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), and polycystic kidney disease (a genetic disorder). Several risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, and a family history of kidney failure, can increase the likelihood of kidney disease. Those over age 60 are also at greater risk.

Why is Kidney health Important
Kidneys are essential for filtering toxins from the blood, producing hormones that control blood pressure, and making red blood cells. They also help maintain electrolyte balance and remove excess fluids. Dysfunction of the kidneys can interrupt all these functions.

Kidney diseases are on the rise globally, and their link with cardiovascular diseases further adds to the risk. Kidney dysfunction increases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, and also worsens the health risks of diabetes and hypertension. It can promote the development of other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cancer and dementia. Left unchecked, kidney disease can progress to kidney failure, which may later require dialysis or a transplant.

What are the symptoms of kidney disease

Kidney disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms. The signs only appear when the disease advances. However, certain signs can hint that your kidneys are not functioning properly. Look for the following signs.

Urinating more frequently
Swollen ankles and feet
Weight loss and poor appetite
Blood in urine, or foamy urine
Dry and itchy skin
Trouble sleeping
Shortness of breath
Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
Persistent puffiness around eyes
Muscle cramps

Tests to check your kidney health
If you experience any of these symptoms or have risk factors, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. Regular kidney function tests are crucial for early detection and management of kidney problems, especially for high-risk individuals. There are several tests to assess kidney health.

Serum creatinine
Cystatin C
Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
Urinalysis
Urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR)

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