Catching kidney problems early allows a much better chance of finding out the cause and implementing a plan to prevent further issues. It’s important to get your kidney function checked yearly if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, or a family history of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
This is done through a simple blood or urine test, which checks for a protein called creatinine. High levels of creatinine or blood in your urine may indicate that your kidneys aren’t working properly.
No one should be more invested in protecting your kidney health than you. Talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors for developing CKD, and discuss any lifestyle changes you should make or treatment options to consider.
For a comprehensive list of questions you might ask your doctor, visit Winchester Hospital’s health library.
To learn about nutrients and how they impact your kidney health, visit kitchen.kidneyfund.org. You’ll also find a variety of kidney-friendly recipes to print or download.
References
Orlando M. Gutiérrez, M.D., M.M.Sc., “How to talk to your doctor,” American Kidney Fund, March 13, 2014, https://www.kidneyfund.org/article/how-talk-your-doctor.
“Talking to Your Doctor About Chronic Kidney Disease,” Winchester Hospital Health Library, accessed October 11, 2022, https://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=103165.
