General Hea lth Kidney Disease In Australia The following conditions place people at greater risk of developing kidney disease and chronic Kidney disease than the rest of the population: • Diabetes • High blood pressure • Established heart problems • Family history of kidney disease • Smoking • Excessive weight and/or obesity • Being over 60 years of age • Being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander The scariest thing about chronic kidney disease, which affects over one million Australians each year, is that there are no warning signs. It is common for people to lose 90% of kidney function prior to experiencing any of the symptoms. Over time, symptoms will gradually worsen as kidney function declines, and despite its detection later on, it may already be too late. Symptoms include • High blood pressure • Changes in urination frequency, quantity and appearance • Blood in urine • Pain in kidney area • Tiredness • Loss of appetite • Difficulty sleeping • Headaches • Itching • Nausea and vomiting • Bad breath and metallic taste in mouth There are five stages of kidney disease: early stage, mild damage, moderate damage, severe damage and end-stage kidney disease, the last which results from the kidneys functioning at only 10% - 15% of capacity. This stage generally necessitates dialysis or a kidney transplant. The cost of treating end-stage kidney disease in Australia is estimated to reach $12 billion between 2009 and 2020. Prevention Luckily, you can lower your risk of kidney disease and now is the time to take action! To protect your kidneys, follow these tips, learn more and remember the importance of these strange but crucial organs to your health. Learn about your family history and the prevalence of kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity • Talk to your GP and ask for a kidney check • Eat a healthy diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables • Drink lots of water - try to take two litres per day • Maintain a healthy recommended Body Mass Index (BMI) • Exercise at least three times a week • Drink alcohol in moderation • Diabetics should maintain good blood glucose levels • Quit smoking or remain a non-smoker • Reduce stress and live happily pm For more information, visit kidney.org.au or call the information service hotline on 1800 454 363. www.JordaanSurgical.com.au www.SurgicalWeightlossCentre.com.au
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Four
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