What are the early signs of kidney disease?

Kidney disease (a serious condition) affects millions globally. The kidneys, essential organs that filter wastes and excess fluids from blood, are instrumental in maintaining overall health. When kidneys experience damage, it can quickly snowball into multiple health complications; this is concerning because of the far-reaching effects.That is why, kidney treatment in Ayurveda emphasizes recognizing the early signs of kidney disease so that further damage can be avoided and the patients can be presented with brighter prognosis.

Kidney Disease: Early Signs

1. Changes in Urine Color and Frequency: “It is one of the first signs of kidney issues”, says renowned kidney expert Dr. Puneet Dhawan, founder of Karma Ayurveda hospital. Any alterations in urine color, consistency, or frequency can indicate problems. Dark of foamy urine, frequent urination, and pain and discomfort while urinating are sure-shot signs of an underlying kidney disease.
2. Swelling (Edema): Improper renal functions can result in fluid retention in the body. Swelling in the ankles, feet, hands, and face can indicate the presence of an underlying renal disorder. If swelling is accompanied by shortness of breath, it is a classic symptom of kidney failure and requires immediate medical attention.
3. Fatigue and Weakness: When the kidneys are damaged, they may not produce erythropoietin in adequate quantities. This hormone stimulates the production of red blood cells in the body. This can result in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and a lack of energy.
4. Shortness of Breath: People with compromised renal functions often complain of shortness of breath as an excess fluid buildup in the lungs interferes with the breathing process. This is a condition known as pulmonary edema, which can make it difficult to breathe.
5. Persistent Back or Side Pain: Back pain is a common health disorder; however, kidney-related pain typically occurs in the area of the back just below the ribcage. If you experience a sharp, severe pain that comes in waves, it is a classic sign of renal stones.
6. Nausea and Vomiting: As mentioned above, an inconsistent renal function leads to a buildup of fluids in the body. This can cause uremia, which causes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and an overall feeling of being unwell.
7. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Kidney disease and high blood pressure are interlinked. High blood pressure has a damaging effect on the blood vessels in the kidneys, weakening their ability to function properly. Conversely, kidney disease can cause high blood pressure.
8. Itchy Skin: Itchy skin, or pruritus, occurs when waste products build up in the body and the kidneys cannot eliminate them effectively. The accumulation of waste in the blood can cause itchy skin and a skin that has a flaky texture to it.

Why Early Detection Matters?

Kidney disease hardly displays any noticeable symptoms in the early stages and progresses silently. Identifying the early warning signs of kidney disease can help your healthcare provider assess your condition better and arrive at a treatment plan that most aptly cures your renal disorder. Regular check-ups assume importance, especially if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes for kidney patients.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Kidney Disease: Approach

Herbal Remedies:

• Gokshura acts as a natural diuretic, i.e. it facilitates increased urination (and thus) expels toxins from the body. Regular consumption can assist in managing symptoms of various renal disorders.
• Punarnava is recognized for its ability to rejuvenate (and) heal kidney tissues, thanks to punarnavoside glycoside content. However, always consult your doctor before you consume any herb or medicine to improve your overall renal health; an unsupervised consumption of any medicine can spell trouble for you. Dr. Puneet Dhawan of Karma Ayurveda also advises the patients the same.
• Ashwagandha is excellent at diminishing inflammation in the kidneys; furthermore, it provides a significant boost to overall renal health by keeping a check on renal infections and other issues.
• Pashanbheda is yet another excellent herb for renal well-being! It possesses diuretic and anti-diabetic qualities, which aid in expelling toxins and regulating blood sugar levels effectively.

Lifestyle and Diet Tips:

• Be sure to consume a higher proportion of plant-based foods (fruits, veggies, beans, and whole grains)—they are fiber-rich and easily digestible. Processed foods should be avoided, however, because they are often high in salt, which can interfere with blood pressure and kidney function.
• While protein is essential, moderation is key, especially when it comes from animal sources like meat and fish. Excessive amounts can elevate creatinine levels, which isn’t ideal for kidney health.
• Remember to drink ample water and maintain hydration: herbal teas and juices can also be effective. 
• Alcohol and smoking should be eliminated, as they pose significant risks to kidney function.
• Incorporating berries (such as strawberries and cranberries) into your diet is advantageous; they reduce oxidative stress in kidney tissues.
• Don't overlook cabbage—it is alkaline, aids in lowering acidity, and purifies the blood. With a few straightforward changes and guidance from Ayurvedic practices, you can naturally enhance kidney health!
• In love with fizzy beverages and the refreshing taste of cola? Unfortunately, there is a bad news for you! Fizzy drinks aren’t particularly beneficial for your kidneys. They're loaded with sugar, caffeine and various chemicals that can overwork your kidneys and disrupt their function. Additionally, the elevated sugar content can lead to weight gain and even kidney stones. Although the occasional soda is acceptable, it’s preferable to stick to water or herbal drinks for happy kidneys; however, one must consider moderation and the consumption should be accompanied by your doctor’s consent.

Conclusion

Kidney disease is a serious condition and by paying attention to minute changes in your body like changes in urination, swelling, fatigue, or skin issues, an early detection of kidney disease and prompt treatment is a possibility. Taking proactive measures like maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, managing chronic conditions, etc. go a long way in avoiding renal disorders in the first place. However, detecting the symptoms early and taking measures to treat the quickly will ensure much better prognosis for you.