How well are your kidneys?
- Admin
- Mar 3
- 2 min read
March is recognized as National Kidney Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health and preventing kidney disease. As a primary care physician, I see firsthand how common—and often silent—kidney disease can be. The good news? Early detection and simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.
National Kidney Month is led by organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation to encourage education, screening, and prevention efforts across the country.
Why Kidney Health Matters
Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that:
Filter waste and excess fluid from your blood
Regulate blood pressure
Balance electrolytes
Support red blood cell production
Maintain bone health
When kidneys are not functioning properly, waste builds up in the body. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms until it is advanced.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, millions of adults in the United States have CKD—and many don’t know it.
Who Is at Risk?
You may be at higher risk for kidney disease if you have:
Diabetes (the leading cause of kidney disease)
High blood pressure
Heart disease
A family history of kidney disease
Obesity
Age over 60
Because early kidney disease is usually silent, routine lab work is essential—especially if you fall into one of these risk categories.
How We Screen for Kidney Disease in Primary Care
In your annual wellness visit, we often check:
Blood tests (such as creatinine to estimate GFR)
Urine tests (to check for protein/albumin)
Blood pressure readings
These simple tests can detect early kidney damage—often before symptoms appear.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
In more advanced stages, kidney disease may cause:
Swelling in the legs or around the eyes
Fatigue
Changes in urination
Foamy urine
Shortness of breath
If you notice these symptoms, schedule an appointment promptly.
5 Ways to Protect Your Kidneys
During National Kidney Month, I encourage patients to focus on prevention:
1. Control Blood Sugar
If you have diabetes, maintaining good glucose control protects kidney function.
2. Manage Blood Pressure
Aim for your individualized blood pressure goal (often below 130/80, depending on your health history).
3. Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration supports kidney filtration.
4. Limit NSAID Overuse
Frequent use of medications like ibuprofen can stress the kidneys.
5. Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Focus on:
Fruits and vegetables
Whole grains
Lean proteins
Reduced sodium intake
A Conversation Worth Having
National Kidney Month is a great reminder to ask: “How are my kidneys doing?”
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, let’s review your most recent lab results together. Prevention starts with awareness—and early detection saves lives.
If you haven’t had routine lab work in the past year, consider scheduling your annual exam. Your kidneys work hard for you every day—March is the perfect time to return the favor.
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