March is National Kidney Month
March is chock-full of awareness.
We're starting with the kidneys!
March is National Kidney Month
The kidneys are small organs located in your back that complete several bodily functions:
Regulate fluid levels
Activates vitamin D for healthy bones and teeth
Filters wastes from the blood
Directs production of red blood cells
Regulates blood pressure
Keeps blood minerals in balance
Because the kidneys affect many body systems, issues with them can cause wide systemic breakdowns such as:
Nerve damage
Cardiovascular disease
Weak bones
Heart attack
High blood pressure
Stroke
Kidney failure
Anemia
Risk factors can include:
Diabetes
Family history
High blood pressure
Over the age of 60
Symptoms can include:
Swelling
Blood in urine/foamy
Hard to urinate
Increased thirst
To avoid kidney disease:
Smoking Cessation
Be Active
Monitor Blood Sugar/Pressure
Hydration
Keep your kidneys hydrated!
Be Well,
My Friends!
Source: www.kidney.org
