Important Tips For Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
Living with chronic kidney disease can be very challenging, and managing the condition requires a person to work closely with healthcare providers. While chronic kidney disease can cause a variety of health issues, there are things that people can do to promote good health and minimize damage to their kidneys. The key to managing chronic kidney disease is to be diligent and proactive -- if you have chronic kidney disease, you will need to pay much more attention to your health than a person who is healthy. Use the following tips for managing your chronic kidney disease treatment.
Keep Blood Pressure Under Control
One of the most important things a person with chronic kidney disease can do is keep his or her blood pressure under control. High blood pressure is not good for anyone's kidneys, but it can be especially problematic for people with chronic kidney disease since high blood pressure damages the kidneys further. Work with your doctor to develop a plan to keep your blood pressure at the appropriate level. Your doctor will most likely suggest eating healthier, reducing stress levels, and eating healthy. There is also a good chance that your doctor will prescribe medication to keep your blood pressure under control -- make sure to always take your blood pressure medication as prescribed.
Stay on Top of Kidney Monitoring
If you have chronic kidney disease, your kidneys will need to be closely monitored so any negative changes can be noted and treated quickly. How often you will need kidney monitoring will depend on the severity of your disease and your current kidney function. Your health care providers will tell you when you need to have kidney monitoring tests done -- make sure to adhere to the recommended schedule and show up for all appointments for kidney monitoring.
Ask for Advice Before Taking Over the Counter Medications
Most people assume that over the counter medications are safe to take for headaches, aches and pains, and colds, but there are a number of medications that can be very hard on the kidneys or even cause kidney damage if taken in excess. If you are being treated for chronic kidney disease, always consult your doctor or a pharmacist before taking any type of over the counter medication.
Create a Meal Plan With a Dietician
A person who has chronic kidney disease needs to stick to a healthy diet and pay close attention to what he or she drinks. It is highly recommended that people who have chronic kidney disease should work with a dietitian to create a meal plan that is easy on the kidneys, helps keep blood pressure stable, and can assist in weight loss if needed. Ideally, you should work with a dietitian who has experience helping patients with chronic kidney disease.