World Kidney Day

What are Kidneys?

The kidneys are 2 bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist. They are found in your back on either side of the spine. Kidneys are mainly responsible for filtering waste products, excess water, and other impurities out of the blood. These toxins are stored in the bladder and then removed during urination. The kidneys also regulate pH, salt, and potassium levels in the body. They produce hormones that regulate blood pressure and control the production of red blood cells. The kidneys even activate a form of vitamin D that helps the body absorb calcium.

What is kidney disease?

It occurs when your kidneys become damaged and can’t perform their function. Damage may be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, and various other chronic (long-term) conditions. Kidney disease can lead to other health problems, including weak bones, nerve damage, and malnutrition. If the disease gets worse over time, your kidneys may stop working completely.

What are the types of kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease

The most common form of kidney disease is chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition that doesn’t improve over time. It’s commonly caused by high blood pressure. Kidney function will eventually deteriorate to the point where the kidneys can no longer perform their job properly and the patient may need dialysis. 

Diabetes is also a major cause of chronic kidney disease. The increased level of sugar in the blood damages the blood vessels in the kidneys over time. This means the kidneys can’t clean the blood properly. Kidney failure can occur when your body becomes overloaded with toxins.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are another common kidney problem. They occur when minerals and other substances in the blood crystallize in the kidneys, forming solid masses (stones). Kidney stones usually come out of the body during urination. In some cases, they need medical help.

Polycystic kidney disease

Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that causes numerous cysts (small sacs of fluid) to grow in the kidneys. These cysts can interfere with kidney function and cause kidney failure. 

Urinary tract infections

Urinary Tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections of any part of the urinary system. Infections in the bladder and urethra are the most common. They are easily treatable, however, if left untreated, these infections can spread to the kidneys and cause kidney failure.

What are the symptoms of kidney disease?

Kidney disease is a condition that can easily go unnoticed until the symptoms become severe. The following symptoms are early warning signs that you might be developing kidney disease:

• Muscle cramping.
• Swollen feet/ ankles.
• Puffiness around the eyes in the morning.
• Dry, scaly skin.
• Frequent urination.

Severe symptoms that could mean your kidney disease is progressing into kidney failure include:

• Nausea/ vomiting.
• Changes in urine output.
• Fluid retention.
• Anaemia.
• Sudden rise in potassium levels. 

What are the risk factors for developing kidney disease?

Here are a few factors that increase your risk of getting a kidney disease:

• High blood pressure.
• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Heart disease.
• Family history of chronic kidney disease.
• Old age.

What is Kidney Failure?

Kidney (renal) failure is when kidneys don’t work as well as they should. The term “kidney failure” covers a lot of problems.

Dialysis and kidney disease

Dialysis is an artificial method of filtering the blood. It’s used when someone’s kidneys have failed or are close to failing. Many people with end-stage kidney disease must go on dialysis permanently or until a donor’s kidney is found.

There are two types of dialysis: Hemodialysis and Peritoneal dialysis.

Hemodialysis

In hemodialysis, the blood is pumped through a special machine that filters out waste products and fluid. Hemodialysis is done at your home or in a hospital or dialysis center.

Peritoneal dialysis

In peritoneal dialysis, the peritoneum (membrane that lines the abdominal wall) stands in for the kidneys. A tube is implanted and used to fill the abdomen with a fluid called dialysate. Waste products in the blood flow from the peritoneum into the dialysate. The dialysate is then drained from the abdomen.

Kidney transplant

A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure to place a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor into a person whose kidneys no longer function properly. When your kidneys lose this filtering ability, harmful levels of fluid and waste accumulate in your body, which can raise your blood pressure and result in kidney failure (end-stage kidney disease). End-stage renal disease occurs when the kidneys have lost about 90% of their ability to function normally. A kidney transplant can treat chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease to help you feel better and live longer.

Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease

You can protect your kidneys by preventing or managing health conditions that cause kidney damage. Here are a few health tips to keep your kidneys healthy:

1. Make healthy food choices

Choose foods that are healthy for your kidneys. Cut back on salt and sugar and avoid processed foods. Eat whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables.

2. Make physical activity part of your routine

Be active for 30 minutes or more on most days. Start a workout plan you enjoy like gymming, pilate, running or join an active sport you like playing.

Get enough sleep

Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. If you have trouble sleeping, take steps to improve your sleep habits.

3. Stop smoking

Smoking highly increases your risk of kidney disease, quit today.

4. Limit alcohol intake

Drinking too much alcohol can increase your blood pressure and add extra calories, which increases your risk of getting a kidney disease.

5. Explore stress-reducing activities

Take up activities like yoga, meditation or join a hobby to help manage your stress better.

6. Manage diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, the best way to protect your kidneys from damage is to keep your numbers in control and to take all medicines as prescribed. 

Are you suffering from any kidney disorders? Do you suspect any symptoms of kidney disease? Consult our highly experienced nephrologists at our Department of Nephrology for more help. Please find below link:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/nephrology.html

Despite making up half of the world’s population, women face major bias when it comes to healthcare. Most women don’t get timely access to healthcare services. A research conducted by a well known medical institute in India found only 37% of women got access to health care, as compared to 67% of men. Many of today’s health problems are preventable and manageable, as long as the appropriate time and care are given. It is time to increase the awareness about women’s diseases and ensure they get equal access to medical care. Women themselves must also make their health a priority and take the time to address their health concerns.

Common Women’s Diseases

Here is a list of the most common health disorders suffered by women:

1. Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer found in women. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the more treatable it is, so it’s important that women over the age of 40 years must do regular self-checks and mammograms. Here are the common risk factors of breast cancer:

• Genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
• Family history of breast cancer.
• Early onset of menstruation (before age 12) or menopause.
• Smoking or excessive alcohol intake.
• Obesity.

2. Osteoporosis

Women have a lower bone density than men and they tend to lose bone mass more rapidly as they age, this can lead to osteoporosis. Like many other common health issues for women, osteoporosis is influenced by the hormone estrogen. Estrogen helps regulate your reproductive cycle and keeps your bones strong. Because women experience dramatic drops in estrogen with menopause, they’re more likely to experience bone loss and osteoporosis at that time.

Here are a few health tips for stronger bones:

• Ensuring adequate calcium intake.
• Maintaining proper vitamin D levels.
• Be regular with your exercise routine.
• Avoid aerated drinks.
• Reducing your intake of salt.

3. Heart Disease

Although heart disease is often thought of as a problem that mainly affects men, heart disease is the most common cause of death for both men and women. Women experience different symptoms of a heart attack as compared to men. Here are a few symptoms:

• Neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back or abdominal pain.
• Shortness of breath.
• Pain in one or both arms.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Sweating.

4. Depression

More women are diagnosed with depression, compared with men, with one in five experiencing depression at some time in their life. Women are more likely to experience these conditions during pregnancy and postpartum. Here are a few symptoms to watch for:

• An ongoing sad and anxious mood.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities.
• Irritability, restlessness or persistent crying.
• Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness.
• Sleeping problems – oversleeping or insomnia.

5. Fertility issues

10% of women between the ages of 15 and 44 have struggled with getting pregnant and/or staying pregnant. Some of the underlying reasons why women may be having issues with fertility are endometriosis, uterine fibroids, dysmenorrhea and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

6. Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is cancer arising from the cervix. It is due to the abnormal growth of cells that can invade or spread to other parts of the body. Early on, typically no symptoms are seen. Later symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse.

7. Pregnancy issues

Certain complications during pregnancy can threaten the health of a mother and her child. Asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and depression can harm the mother and child during pregnancy if not managed properly.

8. Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune disease occurs when body cells that eliminate threats, such as viruses, attack healthy cells. Common autoimmune disease seen in women includes psoriasis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders.

Recommended health tests for women

Women’s bodies go through a lot of hormonal imbalance during their life. Make regular health screenings a part of your life. Being proactive regarding your health can prevent several health problems. We highly recommend these health tests for women:

1. Breast Examination

It is recommended to start your mammograms once you cross 40 years. Early detection ensures better chances of recovery. Complete self breast self-examination is also recommended every month. Talk to your doctor if you spot anything unusual.

2. Pelvic examination

It is always advisable that you visit your Gynaecologist periodically and have a complete pelvic examination and a Pap smear test. Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death amongst women in India.

3. Bone density test

A Bone Density Test helps detect your bone condition. This helps detect osteoporosis.

4. Thyroid test

Many women complain of unexplained weight gain, hair loss, brittle nails, and exhaustion. A common reason for this is an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism which controls the metabolism of the body. Get your thyroid levels checked.

5. Vitamin D test

This is a vital nutrient needed for bone growth and maintenance. The most important source of vitamin D is exposure to the sun. As we age, the tendency to synthesise this nutrient decreases.

6. Lipid profile tests

This test checks for good and bad cholesterol along with triglycerides and total cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a fat molecule, which is present in higher levels can get accumulated in the blood vessels and can affect the health of your heart, blood vessels, and brain.

7. Blood sugar test

A blood sugar test helps to diagnose diabetes and pre-diabetes. Diabetes has a tremendous impact on a woman’s health and has severe long-term complications.

8. Cardiac check-up

Get your cardiac check-up done if you have a family history of hypertension, heart disease or if you’re overweight, or if you are a smoker.

This International Women’s Day be proactive about your health. Consult experts when in doubt, do not rely on home remedies and self-medication. Please find below link to our Departments which specialize in women’s healthcare:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_motherchild.html

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_cancer.html

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/gynaecologyobstetrics.html

Start this decade on a fresh note. Change old habits, quit the bad ones, adapt a healthy lifestyle and choose to eat better. This new year find a new you. If you want a fitter body and a healthier self, you need to focus on your health and make small changes in every part of your life. Take charge of your health and see the difference in a few months.

Did you know?

• The frequency of coronary heart disease in young Indians is 15-18% higher than in any other population group globally.
• 10% to 15% of strokes in Indians occur in people below the age of 40 years.
• 135 million Indians are affected by overweight and obesity.

A healthy lifestyle is extremely important to control the risk of chronic diseases. This new year decide to lead a healthy life to control the risk of diseases. Make your health your priority this new year. Here are 20 things to do in 2020 to be healthy:

1. Start a fitness routine that you enjoy

Find an exercise routine or join a class of your choice. This ensures you will be regular at your workout regime. It is recommended to exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.

2. Take care of your digestive health

Your digestive system is something that needs utmost care. Address issues of bloating, stomach ache or discomfort. Have probiotics like curd to ensure your gut bacteria levels are in a normal range.

3. Have more fruits and vegetables

Cover half of your plate with fruits and vegetables. They should occupy more space than pasta, rice, or potatoes.

4. Get more quality sleep

Lack of sleep may increase your risk of weight gain, heart disease, and depression. Maintain a timely schedule to improve sleep quantity and quality.

5. Eat smart while dining out

Stay away from deep fried dishes, instead choose to have grilled or baked foods. Avoid dishes that are full of cheese.

6. Eat a healthy diet

Eat a combination of different foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole grains. Limit your intake of refined foods like maida and bread.

7. Consume less salt and sugar

Reduce your salt intake to 5g per day, equivalent to about one teaspoon. Limit intake of processed foods as they contain high amounts of sodium.

Consuming excessive amounts of sugar increases the risk of tooth decay and unhealthy weight gain. Limit sugary snacks, candies, desserts and sugar-sweetened beverages.

8. Reduce intake of harmful fats

Fats consumed should be less than 30% of your total energy intake. This will help prevent unhealthy weight gain and chronic diseases. There are different types of fats, but unsaturated fats are preferable over saturated fats and trans-fats.

9. Avoid alcohol

There is no safe level for drinking alcohol. Consuming alcohol can lead to health problems such as mental and behavioural disorders, including alcohol dependence, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, some cancers and heart diseases. Say no to alcohol.

10. Don’t smoke

Smoking tobacco causes non-communicable diseases such as lung disease, heart disease and stroke. Tobacco kills not only the direct smokers but even non-smokers through second-hand exposure..

11. Check your blood pressure regularly

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is called a “silent killer”. This is because many people who have hypertension may not be aware of the problem as it may not have any symptoms. If left uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to heart, brain, kidney and other diseases.

12. Get vaccinated

Vaccines are for children as well as adults. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent diseases. Vaccines work with your body’s natural defences to build protection against diseases like cervical cancer, diphtheria, hepatitis B, influenza, measles, pneumonia, polio, tetanus, typhoid, etc.

13. Practice safe sex

Looking after your sexual health is important for your overall health and well-being. Use contraceptives to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

14. Stay hydrated

Drinking more water will help your body absorb more body fluids effectively. Make a habit of drinking 2-3 liters of water every day this year.

15. Speak up

Depression is a common Illness worldwide with over 260 million people affected. It might make you think about negative and disturbing thoughts and may make you feel low. Talk to someone you trust such as a family member, friend, colleague or seek professional counselling.

16. Take antibiotics only as prescribed

Make sure you only take antibiotics if prescribed by a qualified health professional. And once prescribed, complete the treatment days as instructed. Never share antibiotics.

17. Clean your hands properly

Hand hygiene is critical for everyone. Clean hands can prevent the spread of infectious illnesses. You must wash your hands using soap and water before meals, after coming home from outside as well as after using the toilet.

18. Ensure your food is safe

Unsafe food containing harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites or chemical substances can lead to food poisoning. Check expiry dates before buying packaged foods. If you are cooking, make sure you maintain cleanliness, cook thoroughly, use safe water and ingredients.

19. Have regular check-ups

Regular check-ups can help find health problems before they start. Health professionals can help find and diagnose health issues early, when your chances for treatment and cure are better.

20. Limit Screen Time

Spending too much time on electronic devices – particularly on social media — has been linked to depression, anxiety, and loneliness in some studies. Set a resolution to cut back on the time you spend scrolling through social media, watching TV, or playing games on screens.

Here’s wishing a Happy and Healthy 2020 to all!

We at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital are committed to support you in your health journey. From health check-ups, to cardiac diseases, to nutrition, to counseling, to cancer care we have various departments that cater to all health issues.

The much-awaited winter season is finally here. The pleasant and sometimes chilly winds are making their presence felt. Are you enjoying the wintery evenings? Winter brings along seasonal changes and temperature changes leading to many diseases. Viral fever, common cold, flu, and cough are the common diseases of this season. Winter also brings dullness and may cause feelings of depression. Winter may also weaken your immune system making you more susceptible to diseases.

Cover yourself well this winter, especially if you are travelling to places of colder climate. Use a scarf, cap, or a sweater if needed. It is important to keep infants and the elderly warm in this season. Certain dietary measures help ensure that the body stays warm from inside in winters.

Winter health tips

Here are some health tips to stay healthy during this winter:

1. Cook with Spices

Onions, garlic, turmeric, and ginger are the perfect items to add flavour to your dishes. Not only do they make food taste great, but they’re also shown to help improve immune function. Turmeric helps to combat many conditions including inflammation and heart disease, and it acts as a powerful antioxidant.

2. Add Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are a healthy type of fat that is naturally found in many food types including fish, plant seeds and nuts. Omega 3 fatty acids are great for reducing joint pain and stiffness as they are a natural anti-inflammatory. Studies have also shown that omega 3 fatty acids help lower levels of depression, which people commonly feel during the shorter days of winter.

3. Cook in desi ghee

Ghee is a winter essential that can be used to keep warm naturally. Ghee is rich in unsaturated fat, which is responsible for keeping the body warm and also supplying it with energy, dispelling the sluggishness that is brought on by winters.

4. Snack On Dried Fruits:

Figs, or anjeer, is a great example of dried fruits that can help you stay warm during winters. Another excellent dried fruit to consume during winters is date. Figs and dates are rich in calcium and iron and are both help keep your body warm.

5. Get sunlight

Get outdoor and soak in the warm sun, your body requires vitamin D – which is essential for maintaining health and immunity, vitamin D is also required to regulate mood.

6. Green tea

Green tea is a powerful antioxidant and has strong antiviral and antibacterial properties. Drinking approximately three to five cups of green tea a day keeps your immune system in check.

7. Honey

It is known to be the safest and easiest way to cure cold and fever during winter. Honey is known for its antibacterial properties that help fight bacteria and virus. You can have honey every night before going to bed, or mix it in a cup of warm milk.

8. Leafy greens

Methi, Palak, Sarson are all available in abundance and are a good source of beta-carotene and Vitamin C – both powerful antioxidants that help fight disease and build immunity. Others in this category are coriander, amaranth, celery, radish greens, etc.

9. Wash your hands

Washing your hands after coming from outside helps prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the spread of viral infections like cold and cough.

10. Stay active

Maintain a healthy lifestyle by continuing your fitness regime in winters too. Running, jogging, going to a gym, playing a sport, choose an activity you enjoy the most.

Enjoy the winters by eating seasonal and taking the above health precautions. This helps boost your immune system. Have a healthy winter!