Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease. High blood glucose (blood sugar) levels can damage blood vessels and lead to decreased kidney function.

High blood pressure is the second leading cause of kidney disease. High blood pressure can hurt blood vessels and increase stress on the kidneys.

While kidney disease isn't contagious, it can run in families. If you have a family member who has diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease, you may be at risk.

Smoking can affect blood flow and blood pressure. It increase the risk of kidney disease, especially for people with diabetes and/or high blood pressure.

There are things you can do that may help slow down kidney disease. Start by managing diabetes and making your life easier at the same time. Learn quick, easy ways to simplify your daily routine.

Most insurance companies cover a 90-day supply of medication. That means fewer trips to the pharmacy. Talk with your pharmacist to coordinate your meds to refill them all at once.

Keep medical information and supplies in one place for easy access. Having all these important materials in one place makes it easier to prep for doctor’s visits and reordering supplies.

Whether you want to have groceries delivered or want to pick them up, shopping online can help limit impulse purchases. And it can help make sure you have all the healthy foods you need.

Fewer people are outside in the mornings, making it a great time for a relaxing workout and to start your day off right. Morning walks can improve memory and cognition in older adults.

Home dialysis comes in two different forms, peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis. Both options offer freedom and flexibility by doing treatment in the comfort of your home.

Dialysis centers provide hemodialysis treatments by trained professionals. Many people choose in-center dialysis for the peace of mind of a clinic setting. 

If living in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility, residents may be able to receive onsite dialysis instead of travelling to a center for treatment.

A transplant can be an ideal treatment option for those eligible. After a successful transplant, people do not have to perform dialysis for many years.