As we age, our bodies go through series of changes that can affect nearly every organ, including our kidneys. These small, bean-shaped organs are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from our blood, making them essential to our overall health. However, kidney function tends to decline with age, making older adults more at risk to kidney-related issues. This is why regular kidney checkups are important, especially as we get older.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate a problem with your kidneys, no matter your age, it’s important to schedule a check-up right away. Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center have the best doctors that can perform a kidney function test for an appropriate diagnosis.
The Role of the Kidneys
Your kidneys do a lot more than just process waste. They help regulate your blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and produce hormones that support your red blood cell production. When your kidneys aren’t functioning properly, it can lead to a series of health problems such as high blood pressure, anemia, and even heart disease.
For older adults, kidney health is particularly important because the kidneys naturally lose some of their filtering capacity over time. This gradual decline in function can go unnoticed, making it easy to overlook potential kidney issues until they become serious.
Why Older Adults Are at Higher Risk
Aging alone increases the possibility of kidney issues, but there are a few specific reasons why older adults are more prone to kidney problems:
- Reduced Kidney Function – By the time you’re in your 70s or 80s, your kidneys might only be functioning at about 60% of their original capacity, even if you’re otherwise healthy.
- Chronic Conditions – Many older adults live with chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, both of which are major risk factors for kidney disease.
- Medications – Some medications commonly used by older adults, such as anti-inflammatories and blood pressure drugs, can stress the kidneys if not managed properly.
Signs of Kidney Issues
One of the tricky things about kidney disease is that it’s often called a “silent” condition. Many people don’t experience noticeable symptoms until the disease has progressed. Here are some subtle signs that might indicate you already have a kidney problem:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
- Changes in urination frequency
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
Unfortunately, these symptoms are easily confused with other age-related health issues. This is where regular checkups come in very handy and helpful.
The Importance of Regular Kidney Checkups
Even if you feel perfectly healthy, regular kidney screenings should be part of your annual health routine, especially if you are over the age of 60. These checkups usually involve a few simple tests, which can include:
- Blood Pressure Monitoring – High blood pressure is both a cause and an effect of kidney problems, so keeping it in check is very important.
- Urine Tests – A urinalysis can detect protein or blood in your urine, both signs of kidney trouble.
- Blood Tests – These can measure the levels of creatinine and other waste products in your blood, helping assess how well your kidneys are working.
Getting these tests done annually or as recommended by your doctor can catch problems early, when they’re most treatable. Early detection can prevent complications, and in some cases, it can even reverse the progression of kidney disease.
Kidney health often doesn’t get the attention it deserves, especially as you age. However, regular checkups and a few simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in keeping your kidneys functioning well into your later years.
At Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center, our urologists and nephrologists in Brooklyn, New York can help you treat and manage your condition well. To schedule an appointment, you may call us at 1-347-384-5694 or visit our website at https://www.urologistbrooklyn.com/. You can also visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212.