kidney self care basics

Overview

Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that filter waste and extra fluid from your blood. They also help control blood pressure and make red blood cells. Kidney self-care means making everyday choices that keep your kidneys working well for as long as possible.

Kidney problems are very common. Around 1 in 10 adults has some form of kidney damage.

Anyone can have kidney problems, but they are more likely if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. People over 60 are also at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Foamy or bubbly urine
• Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands
• Feeling more tired than usual
• Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
• Itchy skin
• Poor appetite

Symptoms in children

• Bedwetting after being dry at night
• Swelling around the eyes
• Poor growth or weight gain
• Frequent urinary tract infections

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or trouble concentrating
• Swelling in legs or ankles
• Less urine than usual
• Feeling weak or dizzy

Causes

Main causes

• Diabetes (high blood sugar damages kidney filters)
• High blood pressure (damages blood vessels in the kidneys)
• Urinary tract infections that keep coming back
• Enlarged prostate or other blockage
• Autoimmune diseases that affect the kidneys

Risk factors

• Family history of kidney disease
• Being over 60
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Regular use of over-the-counter pain relievers

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have any of the emergency symptoms listed above
• You see blood in your urine
• You cannot keep fluids down

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, get a kidney check at least once a year
• If you notice new swelling, tiredness, or changes in urination lasting more than a few days

Diagnosis

Doctors check kidney health with blood and urine tests. These tests measure waste products and look for protein or blood in your urine.

Tests that may be done

• Blood test to measure creatinine and estimate GFR (a measure of how well your kidneys filter)
• Urine test to check for protein or blood
• Ultrasound or CT scan to look at the size and shape of your kidneys

What to expect at your appointment

The tests are quick and painless. You may be asked to provide a urine sample, and you might need to fast (not eat or drink) for a few hours before the blood test. You will usually get results within a few days, and your doctor will explain what they mean.

Treatment

Treatment for kidney problems depends on the cause and how far the disease has progressed. In early stages, lifestyle changes and treating underlying conditions can protect your kidneys. In later stages, more specialised medical care is needed.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water, unless your doctor tells you otherwise
• Eat a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods
• Keep your blood sugar and blood pressure in a healthy range through diet, exercise, and any medicines your doctor prescribes
• Avoid regular use of over-the-counter pain relievers
• Stop smoking and limit alcohol
• Stay active with at least 30 minutes of walking most days

Medical treatments

If your kidney disease progresses, your doctor may recommend medicines to control blood pressure, lower blood sugar, or reduce protein in your urine. These medicines are tailored to your specific condition. You may also need special diets or supplements, but never take any without your doctor's advice. In advanced stages, you may need dialysis or a kidney transplant to do the work your kidneys can no longer do.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not usually needed for early kidney disease. If your kidneys fail completely, a kidney transplant (surgery to place a healthy kidney from a donor) is the best option for many people. The decision is made with your specialist based on your overall health.

Living with this condition

Living with kidney disease can feel overwhelming at first, but many people manage well with regular check-ups and support. Follow your care plan, take medicines exactly as prescribed, and ask your healthcare team about any worries.

Lifestyle tips

• Learn to read food labels and reduce salt
• Cook at home more often rather than eating fast food
• Find a walking buddy or join a gentle exercise class
• Plan ahead for travel and make sure you have enough medicine

Diet and exercise

A kidney-friendly diet is usually low in salt, potassium, and phosphorus, but you should only follow this if your doctor or dietitian recommends it. Exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling improves heart health and can help keep blood pressure down. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having a chronic condition can cause stress, anxiety, or low mood. It is normal to feel this way. Talk to your doctor about your feelings. They can offer support or refer you to a counsellor. If you are in crisis, call your local emergency number or a mental health crisis service.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent kidney disease, but you can lower your risk. Most importantly, manage diabetes and high blood pressure, stay active, eat well, and avoid long-term use of over-the-counter pain relievers. Get regular kidney check-ups if you are at risk.

Vaccines

Flu, COVID-19, and other vaccines are especially important for people with kidney problems, as they are more prone to infections. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which vaccines are recommended for you.

Screening programmes

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, ask your doctor about a yearly kidney check. This simple blood and urine test can find problems early, when treatment works best.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic kidney disease can slowly worsen, leading to a build-up of waste in your blood
• Fluid can build up in your lungs, causing breathing trouble
• High potassium levels can cause an irregular heartbeat
• Kidney failure may eventually require dialysis or a transplant

Long-term outlook

If kidney problems are found early, progression can often be slowed or stopped. Many people live full, active lives with kidney disease by following their treatment plan and seeing their care team regularly. Even if your kidneys fail, treatments like dialysis and transplant can help you live for many years.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.