Kidney disease is something that millions of aging adults face every year. It happens gradually as kidneys start to lose function over time. Understanding more about kidney disease and its symptoms can help aging adults recognize what is going on so that they can get help. Home care providers can offer a lot of assistance with lifestyle changes as seniors work to keep their kidneys as healthy as they can.
Kidney Disease Often Goes Undetected
Kidney disease is often called a silent health issue because most people don’t realize that they have a problem until it’s serious. Many people don’t experience symptoms, or they might be looked at as symptoms of another health issue altogether. As kidney disease gets worse, seniors might experience higher blood pressure levels, nerve damage, anemia, and more, so it’s urgent to pay attention to the possible signs.
Symptoms of Kidney Disease
The symptoms of kidney disease occur gradually, making them easy to miss. Some of the signs to watch for include changes in urination, swelling in the feet and ankles, or dry, itchy skin. Some gastrointestinal symptoms are common, too, like nausea or loss of appetite. People with kidney disease may be fatigued and feel weak. They may also have trouble sleeping, feel as if they have brain fog constantly, or experience muscle cramps.
Causes of Kidney Disease
The two biggest causes of kidney disease are high blood pressure and diabetes. These two conditions place a lot of stress on the kidneys, forcing them to work harder than they’re supposed to work. Over time, that stress and overwork wear the kidneys out. High blood pressure restricts blood flow to the kidneys, and high blood sugar damages blood vessels in the kidneys. Both conditions need to be managed well in order to avoid kidney disease later. There are other possible causes, too, like having a family history of kidney disease, smoking, or taking medications that can cause kidney damage.
Kidney Disease Prevention
The best way to prevent kidney disease is first to manage other health issues as well as possible. For seniors with high blood pressure or diabetes they need to follow their care plans as closely as possible. Home care providers can remind seniors about these tasks, and they can also do things like remind seniors to drink plenty of water each day. Seniors should get their kidney values checked yearly, and treat urinary tract infections immediately so they don’t spread to the kidneys.
Lifestyle Changes for Kidney Disease
Lifestyle changes can help seniors protect their kidney health, too. Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet are a great start. Exercising and avoiding smoking can also help. If seniors have trouble managing their weight, they should talk with their doctors about a solution. Home care providers can work with seniors to develop routines that help with all of these changes.
Preventing kidney disease means looking closely at risk factors and possibly making some changes to protect overall health. Home care providers can help seniors remember to do the things they need to do in order to protect their kidneys.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care Services in Allegheny County, PA, please contact the caring staff at Extended Family Care Pittsburgh today. Call 412-241-7292
Extended Family Care Pittsburgh is a Trusted Home Care Agency in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, serving Allegheny County, Beaver County, Butler County, Fayette County, Mercer County, Washington County, as well as the North Hills, South Hills, Fox Chapel, Monroeville, Murrysville, Oakland, Plum Boro, and Squirrel Hill areas.
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