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    Mar 09
    Blog: Taking Charge of Kidney Disease

    March is National Kidney Month, a time when communities across the country raise awareness about kidney disease. This year’s focus is on taking charge of your health and the many factors that go into managing your kidney disease.

    Chronic kidney disease affects one out of every seven Americans. It occurs when your kidneys National Kidney Monthexperience damage slowly, over time, not filtering blood properly and building up wastes in your body. This progression can put you at risk for kidney failure and other serious health complications. 

    To prevent or slow chronic kidney disease, and to take charge of your health overall, incorporate healthy lifestyle choices into your daily routine, including: 

    • Keep all of your appointments and stay in touch with your provider care team.
    • Manage your blood pressure with a low-salt diet and exercise.
    • If you have diabetes, monitor your blood glucose levels regularly.
    • Take medicine as prescribed, and avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen.
    • Maintain a healthy weight with a nutrition-rich diet that meets your particular health needs. Work with your doctor to develop a weight-loss plan that works for you.
    • Try to fit in at least 30 minutes or more of physical activity every day.
    • Sleep is an important factor in reducing stress and your overall health. Check out these tips for a good night's sleep.
    • Quit smoking. If you smoke, these tips may help.

    According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health Information Center, “the sooner you know you have kidney disease, the better. The steps you take to protect your kidneys from damage also may help prevent heart disease—and improve your health overall. Making these changes when you have no symptoms may be hard, but it’s worthwhile.”

    Saratoga Hospital Medical Group – Nephrology focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases that affect kidney function. Since many of these are chronic, nephrologists also work with patients to help them manage their conditions and prevent them from progressing. Offices are located in Saratoga Springs, Malta, and Glens Falls.