5 Risk Groups for Kidney Disease: Answers from a Nephrologist

     Many people mistakenly believe that avoiding salty foods is sufficient to prevent kidney disease. However, nephrologists point out that various other factors contribute to kidney disease, including genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences. These factors can cause gradual loss of kidney function, impairing its ability to filter waste and toxins effectively. Understanding kidney care and reducing risks is crucial.

Causes of Kidney Disease Beyond Salt Intake

The causes of kidney disease are not limited to high sodium intake alone. Other factors can trigger abnormal kidney function, which nephrologists have identified, including:

• Genetics Including congenital kidney abnormalities or incomplete kidney development.
• Chronic Conditions Diseases that affect the kidneys.
• Diet Regular consumption of highly processed and spicy foods.
• Inadequate Water Intake Drinking insufficient water or not aligning water intake with body weight.
• Kidney Inflammation Conditions affecting the kidney’s small blood vessels.
• Kidney Stones Presence of stones in the kidneys or urinary tract.

5 Risk Groups for Kidney Disease

There are 5 risk groups for kidney disease, as classified and categorized by nephrologists as follows:

1. Individuals with Chronic Conditions

     Such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases (e.g., SLE), and gout, all of which increase the risk of chronic kidney disease.

2. Individuals who Consume Spicy Foods

     This includes not only salty foods but also overly sweet or spicy foods and highly processed items like ham, bacon, snacks, canned fruits, instant noodles, and pickled foods.

3. Individuals who Drinking Insufficient Water

     Although not the sole cause, inadequate water intake can lead to increased kidney workload, raising the risk of kidney disease.

4. Individuals who Regularly Take NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can inhibit prostaglandins, which are essential for kidney blood flow. Nephrologists are concerned that long-term or high-dose use of NSAIDs may decrease kidney blood flow and cause acute kidney failure. In addition, patients who regularly use NSAIDs should watch for abnormal symptoms that may indicate kidney disease, such as:

• Frequent urination, especially at night.
• Foamy urine, dark-colored urine, or urine with unusual color.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Swelling in the face, feet, arms, and legs.
• Chronic back pain or lower back pain.

If any of these abnormal symptoms are observed, one should promptly consult a nephrologist for diagnosis and timely treatment.

5. Individuals who Take Excessive Supplements

     Since the kidneys are responsible for detoxification, consuming supplements with potentially harmful compounds in excess can strain the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney inflammation, kidney failure, or kidney stones. Therefore, individuals who wish to take dietary supplements should consume them in moderation and consult a nephrologist before starting any supplements, especially those containing the following components Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin C and certain minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Kidney Disease Preventions

Preventing kidney disease is crucial, as it is a leading cause of death in Thailand, and no medication can cure chronic kidney disease completely. Therefore, maintaining kidney health is essential. Start by reducing risk factors and following nephrologist advice:

• Drink 6-8 glasses of clean water daily.
• Eat a balanced diet with complete nutrients.
• Avoid highly processed foods and drinks high in sugar and sodium.
• Manage chronic conditions effectively.
• Maintain normal blood pressure.
• Limit or avoid NSAID use.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Have regular health check-ups.

Early-stage kidney disease often shows no symptoms, which can lead to missed opportunities for early treatment. To prevent and ensure proper kidney function, have annual health check-ups with a nephrologist to assess and address early risks of kidney disease for timely intervention.