27/07/2025
Understanding Kidney Diseases & How to Prevent Them
By Dr. Sajid Lashari
MBBS, FCPS (Nephrology)
Assistant Professor & Consultant Nephrologist
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🧠 What Do Your Kidneys Do?
Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that:
Filter waste and extra fluid from your blood
Maintain balance of electrolytes like sodium and potassium
Control blood pressure
Make red blood cells
Keep your bones strong
When your kidneys are damaged, waste builds up in the body, leading to serious health problems.
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⚠️ Common Causes of Kidney Diseases
Diabetes (most common cause)
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Chronic use of painkillers or unprescribed medicines
Infections or kidney stones
Family history of kidney disease
Autoimmune diseases (like lupus)
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🚨 Warning Signs of Kidney Problems
Swelling in feet, ankles, or face
Tiredness or weakness
Changes in urination (more or less urine, foamy or bloody)
Shortness of breath
Poor appetite or nausea
High blood pressure that doesn’t respond to medicine
Many people have no symptoms until the damage is severe. Early testing is key!
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✅ How to Prevent Kidney Diseases
1. Control Your Blood Sugar
Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure.
Keep your sugar levels in target range through diet, exercise, and medication.
2. Manage High Blood Pressure
Aim for blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg.
Reduce salt intake, exercise, and take medicines if needed.
3. Drink Enough Water
Stay hydrated (but not overhydrated).
6–8 glasses a day is good for most people.
4. Avoid Overuse of Painkillers
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can damage kidneys if used long-term.
Always consult a doctor before using medicines.
5. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Smoking reduces blood flow to kidneys.
Alcohol causes dehydration and raises blood pressure.
6. Eat Kidney-Friendly Foods
Limit processed foods, salty snacks, and fast food.
Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
7. Get Tested if You're at Risk
If you have diabetes, hypertension, or a family history, get regular creatinine, urine protein, and ultrasound tests.
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🩺 When to See a Nephrologist?
Consult a kidney specialist (nephrologist) if:
You have abnormal creatinine or protein in urine
You have uncontrolled BP or diabetes
You feel chronic fatigue, swelling, or changes in urine
You need advice for kidney protection or dialysis
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📍 Expert Kidney Care in Sukkur
Dr. Sajid Lashari
MBBS, FCPS (Nephrology)
Assistant Professor & Consultant Nephrologist
Specialist in:
✔️ Kidney Failure
✔️ Dialysis
✔️ Diabetic Kidney Disease
✔️ High Blood Pressure Management
🏥 Dr. Ziauddin Hospital, Sukkur
📞 071 2050000
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Take care of your kidneys before it's too late.
Early diagnosis can save your life.