Your kidneys are two small organs that are shaped like beans and located under the ribcage in your low back area. Kidneys work to remove waste products and toxins by filtering them out of your blood on a continuous basis, then returning clean blood back into your system. High blood pressure and blood sugar can damage kidney function and cause the filter not to work as well. Several treatments exist for serious kidney ailments, as do lifestyle changes to keep your kidneys functioning well.
Treatment
Step 1
Take medications to help restore impaired kidney function. Phosphate binders help immobilize phosphates, which can combine with calcium to leave deposits on artery walls. Diuretics and iron supplements may also be needed if excess fluid must be removed, or the patient is anemic.
Step 2
Undergo kidney dialysis if you are experiencing kidney failure. Dialysis requires you to be attached to a machine that filters your blood for you. Treatments are usually required three times per week, and 3 to 5 hours each visit, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Step 3
Receive a kidney transplant if your kidneys no longer function and a donor is available. One healthy kidney will perform better than two diseased kidneys.
Step 4
Consent to chemotherapy, surgery or radiation if you have been diagnosed with kidney cancer, says the National Cancer Institute. Common cancers of the kidney are renal cell carcinoma, which develops in the part of the kidney that filters blood and toxins, and renal pelvis carcinoma, which attacks the center of the kidney.
Prevention
Step 1
Read the labels of food to help you avoid foods high in sodium. Also, avoid salty snacks like potato chips and salted nuts, and don't add any salt to your food. This will help keep blood pressure in check.
Step 2
Modify your dietary habits to limit excess sugar, and take your medication regularly if you are diabetic.
Step 3
Exercise regularly to help regulate blood sugar levels and blood pressure. Practicing stress reduction exercises like yoga and tai chi are beneficial, as are more traditional exercises like walking, running, swimming and biking.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Kidney Failure -- Choosing a Treatment That's Right for You
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Keep Your Kidneys Healthy
- Kidney Patient Guide: The Treatment of Kidney Failure
- National Cancer Institute: Kidney Cancer
