Kidney Function – How Your Kidneys Keep You Healthy
Ever wonder why doctors keep asking about your kidney function? Those two bean‑shaped organs do more than filter waste; they balance fluids, control blood pressure, and help make sure your blood stays the right chemistry. When they’re working well, you barely notice them. When they start slipping, you might feel tired, have swelling, or notice changes in urination. Knowing the basics helps you spot trouble early and take steps before a problem turns serious.
What Kidney Function Means
Kidney function is measured mainly by two numbers: the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and the level of creatinine in your blood. GFR estimates how much blood each kidney filters every minute. A healthy adult usually has a GFR above 90 mL/min/1.73 m². Below 60, doctors start looking for signs of chronic kidney disease. Creatinine is a waste product from muscles; high levels signal the kidneys aren’t clearing it out fast enough. Simple blood tests give you these numbers, and most labs report them with an easy‑to‑read “eGFR” value.
Besides labs, you can watch for everyday clues. Persistent foamy urine, swelling in your ankles or hands, and unexplained fatigue often hint that the kidneys are under stress. High blood pressure is both a cause and a result of reduced kidney function, so keeping your BP in check is a two‑way street for kidney health.
Everyday Ways to Support Your Kidneys
Keeping your kidneys happy doesn’t require a miracle diet, just a few steady habits. First, stay hydrated. Water helps flush out toxins, but you don’t need to force huge amounts—aim for clear or pale yellow urine most of the day. Second, watch your salt intake. Too much sodium makes the kidneys work harder and raises blood pressure. Try seasoning with herbs, lemon, or a pinch of pepper instead of a shaker full of salt.
Third, be mindful of protein. While you need protein to stay strong, excess animal protein can increase the kidneys’ workload. Balance meat, fish, and plant‑based proteins like beans or lentils. Fourth, limit over‑the‑counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen, especially if you use them often. These drugs can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and cause damage over time.
Finally, get regular check‑ups. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, ask your doctor for an annual kidney function test. Early detection means simple changes can prevent a bigger problem later.
Kidney function is a silent hero in your body. By knowing the key numbers, watching for warning signs, and adopting a few practical habits, you can keep those vital filters running smoothly for years to come.
Azilsartan and Kidney Function: Benefits, Risks, and Monitoring (2025 Guide)
- By Leona Ashfield
- Health
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24
Aug 2025
Clear, evidence-backed guide on how azilsartan affects kidney function: benefits, risks, monitoring, dosing in CKD, and what lab changes actually mean in 2025.