Question 1

How can I check my kidneys at home?

Accepted Answer

You can check for any change in color and/or amount of urine, presence of any foam, blood in urine, pain while urination, swelling in legs or face, fever. Also, you can get checked with basic tests like RFT and CUE. It is suggestable to consult a doctor if you observe any changes and get treated accordingly.

Question 2

I'm really concerned about my kidney health since my serum creatinine levels recently went up from 1.6 to 2.2. After cutting out salt from my diet, the levels came down to 1.7. I'm looking for advice on medications that could help bring my creatinine down to around 1.3. I'm also managing diabetes, with an HbA1C of 8.2, and I've been on insulin Human mixtard with 35 units in the morning and 25 at night. My blood pressure is currently under control, but I would really appreciate any advice on medicines that could help with both my kidney and diabetes issues.

Accepted Answer

. I can understand your worry.. creatinine is measure of kidney function.. since you have diabetes and hypertension, both of which affects kidney if not controlled properly.. hba1c of 8.2 is not good control.. it's has to be below 7 then only it's good control.. have small frequent meals instead of three big meals, have more fibre rich diet, have green leafy vegetables, in fruits have guava, orange, avoid sapota, papaya, apple, banana.. reduce carbohydrates and fats.. for kidney disease, reduce salt intake and have low protein intake.. consult dietician for complete diet plan..

Question 3

My mom is 65 and her recent tests show EGFR 76 with creatinine at 0.93 mg/dl she's been diagnosed with CKD stage 2. Is treatment necessary at this point or is it okay to just monitor? Should we see a nephrologist now or wait? Also, she's scheduled for gallstone surgery next month is it safe for her to go ahead with the procedure given her kidney condition?

Accepted Answer

For a 65-year-old with stage 2 CKD (eGFR 76, creatinine 0.93 mg/dL), monitoring and lifestyle modifications are likely the initial approach, while a nephrologist consultation is recommended, not necessarily immediately, but within the next few months to assess the underlying cause and discuss long-term management options. The gallstone surgery is generally safe if properly managed, especially if the surgeon is aware of the kidney condition.

What is the first sign of kidney problems?

Any symptoms such as decreased urine output, fluid retention that leads to swelling in limbs, facial puffiness and shortness of breath are signs of kidney damage.

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