Be kind to your kidneys

Looking after your kidney health

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Over the next few months we are campaigning on the importance of being kind to our kidneys. Our kidneys do a lot of good but can be overlooked when we think about our health. To help raise awareness, our primary care team will be out and about in the community, highlighting the importance of looking after our kidneys and talking about how we can reduce our risk of developing chronic kidney disease.

Bringing kidney health to your doorstep!

We are bringing kidney health directly to you through a range of local events! Be sure to check our events page for the latest updates, and keep an eye on the list below as more events are posted! Some events will focus specifically on kidney health, while others will be part of larger community events, so make sure to keep yourself up to date about what’s happening in Sutton!

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic Kidney Disease (sometimes called CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work as well as they should. With CKD, waste products can build up in the body and the kidneys may also leak blood and protein into your urine. CKD is much more common in those who have high blood pressure and diabetes. There are other causes which you may need to discuss with your doctor. In most cases, a new CKD diagnosis has no symptoms. However, CKD does increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke. Luckily, only a small number of patients will need a kidney transplant or dialysis. Many people with CKD can live normal lives. Although kidney damage cannot be reversed, it will not worsen for many people, particularly if caught and managed well at an early stage.

How can I help reduce my risk of developing chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease can’t always be prevented, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

  • Manage long term conditions: Having a high blood pressure or diabetes puts you at greater risk of chronic kidney disease, so it’s important to manage these conditions. Follow advice from your GP and make sure you go to all appointments related to your condition.
  • losing weight if overweight or obese
  • Speak with your doctor or pharmacist to understand what your medication is for and how to take it.
  • Stop smoking.
  • Reduce your alcohol intake.
  • Eat a balanced diet that is low in salt. You may be given advice about dietary changes to help with kidney disease.
  • Try to be active, even a little exercise helps.
  • Be mindful of painkillers – anti inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and aspirin can cause chronic kidney disease of they are taken too much.

CKD can be checked by two simple tests which include a kidney function blood test and urine test. Both of these tests are required to get a better understanding of your kidney health.

More advice about prevention can be found on the NHS website: Chronic kidney disease – Prevention – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Did you know

CKD is more common in in people aged 60 and over

Further Resources

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