More than 661,000 Americans have kidney failure, something that can often (but not always) be treated with lifestyle changes.
March 8th, 2018 is World Kidney Day, globally. This global campaign is aimed at raising awareness of the importance of those two small organs sitting in your lower back that you need to survive, but might rarely think of.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, in the U.S the two leading causes of kidney failure are diabetes and high blood pressure.
Some people may also inherit the third leading cause-something called glomerulonephritis. This is a disease that can run in families. It can also be contracted through an infection, but not a lot is known about what causes it.
Related: Kidney Transplants May Not Need ‘Perfect Match’: Study
Why do you need your kidneys? These little organs are part of your excretory system. You need them to rid your body of waste. Kidneys filter your blood, (about 120 to 150 quarts of it daily), and produce about 1 to 2 quarts of urine per day.
Without them working properly, your system can back up and the results can be deadly.
You can most often help take care of your kidneys by leading a healthy lifestyle. Some conditions come about no matter what you do, but for the average person you can help. Drinking enough water regularly, eating healthy foods, exercising, not smoking and using over-the-counter medications in moderation can all help. Getting a kidney screening can also work to protect you, if you’re believed to be at risk.
If you’re suffering from kidney problems and looking for information on transplants, click here to learn more about it from the National Kidney Foundation.
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