National Kidney Month

What you need to know about the kidneys

Some statistics and facts:

Did you know that almost 1 in 7 people (or 37 million people in more precise numbers) in the U.S. are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD)? Even more shocking, as many as 9 in 10 people aren’t aware that they have CKD.
But what are some of the reasons why many adults have CKD? Because almost 1 in 2 adults living in the United States (108 million people) have high blood pressure. We know that high blood pressure brings many diseases and conditions, and actually, it is the second most significant cause of kidney collapse in the United States behind diabetes. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, you have a considerably greater chance of developing kidney disease.

The kidneys’ function and anatomy:

The anatomy of the kidneys relies on two principal characteristics: bean-shaped organs and about the size of a fist. The kidneys’ essential function in the body is to filter extra water and waste out of your blood through urine.
Kidney disease is when there is damage in the kidneys (this damage can vary in severity) and can’t filter blood the way it should. If you are diagnosed with kidney failure or other conditions like acute kidney injury, kidney cysts, kidney stones, and kidney infections, the most effective treatments and long-term solutions include kidney transplant, dialysis, or medication.

Building Paths to Better Kidney Care:

Innovative and dedicated institutes like The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases allow us to have different approaches to acknowledging, treating, and preventing kidney diseases and conditions. Talented investigators are looking for more personalized solutions to provide better kidney care. By identifying the latest treatments targeted to each person’s needs, type of disease, environment, and lifestyle, they can do that.
At Signature Health Services, we can create a customized treatment plan for each patient suffering from kidney disease.
We want to share with you three ways you can contribute to the path to better kidney care:

• Actively participate in your care. Work together with your health care team and be completely honest to create a treatment plan that complements your lifestyle, mobility, health, dietary needs.
• Follow your care plan thoroughly. It is vital to take all your prescribed medications and stay up to date on vaccines in time and manner.
• Infectious diseases vaccines like the COVID-19 and flu vaccines are crucial for people with kidney disease, who may be more likely to have complications or a more severe case from COVID-19 or the flu.
• Implement a kidney-healthy lifestyle. Incorporate progressively healthy habits into your daily schedule. Includes healthy and nutrient-rich foods and beverages, getting 30 minutes of physical activity (for example: walking or taking the stairs) to stay active, and having a regular sleep pattern with at least 7 to 9 hours of rest.