Uncle Zhao is one of my patients, 56 years old, usually strong, likes to drink and play cards, and lives a happy life.
But not long ago, he suddenly felt unwell, and his lower limbs were swollen, and he thought that he had not rested well after standing too much.
Until I was awakened at night because I couldn't breathe for a few days, and when I went to the hospital for a check, it turned out to be kidney failure!
It turned out that Uncle Zhao had a history of high blood pressure and diabetes for many years, but he always felt that his body was very good, he never took medicine according to the doctor's instructions, his blood pressure and blood sugar were measured according to his mood, and his diet was not controlled.
In addition, he has a habit of drinking several seemingly harmless "water", but he didn't expect this to become the last straw that crushed his kidneys.
What kind of water does Uncle Zhao like to drink, which indirectly increases the burden on his kidneys, let's take a look.
First, drinking habits have become a hidden danger
1. Sugary drinks
Uncle's family told me that Uncle Zhao is a lover of sweets, and he likes to try all kinds of sugary drinks on the market.
But behind those sweetness, there is the danger of high sugar.
Excessive intake of sugar will not only make blood sugar out of control, but also increase the burden on the kidneys, and in the long run, the kidneys will not be able to stand it.
2. Strong tea and coffee
The uncle himself said that he would make a cup of strong tea every afternoon to be sober and sober, and he would drink a few cups of coffee in the evening to refresh himself so that he could play cards for entertainment.
As everyone knows, although the caffeine content in tea and coffee can refresh the mind;
However, drinking large amounts can lead to calcium loss, increase the risk of kidney stones, and even worsen for people with pre-existing kidney disease.
3. Indiscriminate use of medicinal diet
Uncle himself heard on the Internet that some medicinal herbs soaked in water are good for the body, so he started a medicinal diet at home.
His family said it felt like an experiment every time. However, the medicine is not the right symptom, but it hurts the body.
Some Chinese herbal medicines, if used improperly, can also become invisible killers of the kidneys.
In fact, Uncle Zhao said that he felt unwell before, and he didn't take it seriously, so he put it off again and again;
I thought to myself, no, if your body is sending you these "signals", then you don't want to ignore them.
Second, the kidneys send a distress signal
Frequent thirst: People with kidney failure, the body's ability to regulate water is reduced, even if you are not thirsty, you should drink water regularly, but not in excess.
Frequent and urgent urination: increased nocturia may be a sign of declining kidney function.
Edema: The kidneys have poor drainage ability and are prone to edema of the hands and feet.
Fatigue and fatigue: Anemia is a common symptom of kidney failure that can make people listless throughout the day.
High blood pressure is difficult to control: When there is a problem with the kidneys, blood pressure often spikes with it.
Third, how can we tell if our kidney function is healthy?
Renal insufficiency is a type of glomerular destruction caused by a variety of causes;
It is a clinical syndrome that causes the body to excrete metabolic wastes and regulate water, electrolytes, acid-base balance, etc.
Here are some of the outward manifestations of renal insufficiency:
Decreased urine output: In renal insufficiency, the kidneys are not able to effectively filter waste products and excess water from the blood;
This leads to a build-up of fluid in the body, which in turn affects the production of urine.
Urine color changes: Renal insufficiency can lead to an increase in the amount of protein in the urine, which can cause changes in urine color.
Edema: Renal insufficiency can affect the water-salt balance in the body, allowing too much water to be trapped in the gaps between body tissues, causing edema.
Fatigue: Renal insufficiency can lead to anemia, which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen;
As a result, the body is in a state of hypoxia, and at this time it will feel tired and weak.
Anemia: renal insufficiency causes decreased erythropoiesis, which is due to erythropoietin deficiency.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention for a kidney function test.
Fourth, what kind of diet can protect our kidneys?
1. Control protein intake
While protein is an essential nutrient, too much of it can put an extra load on the kidneys.
Choose high-quality protein sources such as fish, lean meats, dairy, and eggs, while being careful not to overdo it.
2. Pay attention to potassium intake
Although potassium is a key mineral, too much potassium can cause problems for people with poor kidney function.
Potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, orange juice, and tomatoes, need to be monitored and alternatives should be sought if necessary.
3. Reduce sodium intake
Avoid foods high in sodium, especially processed foods and fast food, to prevent high blood pressure and edema.
4. Diverse food choices
Make sure your diet is varied and includes a variety of vegetables, grains and fruits for complete nutrition.
5. Regular eating time
Maintain a stable eating pattern, reduce alcohol intake, and prevent excessive hunger or overeating, especially by limiting alcoholic beverages and processed snacks.