Chronic kidney disease
Prevention
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)can't always beprevented,but you can take steps to reduce the chances of getting the condition.
Following the advice below can reduce your risk.
Manage underlying conditions
If you have along-term conditionthat could potentially lead tokidney disease, such as diabetes or high blood pressure , it's importantthis is managed carefully.
Follow the advice of your GP, take any medication you're prescribed and keep all appointments relating to your condition.
Stop smoking
Smoking increases your risk of cardiovascular disease , including heart attacks or strokes , which is associated with a higher risk of kidney disease.
Stopping smoking will improve your general health and reduce your risk of these serious conditions.
The NHS smoking helpline can offer you advice and encouragement to help you quit smoking.Call 0300 123 1044or visit the NHS Smokefree website .
Read moreabout stopping smoking .
Healthy diet
A balanced diet can reduce your risk of kidney disease by keeping your blood pressure and cholesterolat a healthy level.
Abalanced diet should include:
- plenty of fruit and vegetables aim for at least five portions a day
- meals based on starchy foods such as potatoes, bread, rice or pasta
- some dairy or dairy alternatives
- some beans or pulses , fish , eggs , meat and other sources of protein
- low levels of saturated fat , salt and sugar
You should also limit the amount of salt in your diet to no more than 6g (0.2oz) a day. Too much saltcan increase your blood pressure.
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Exercise regularly
Regular exercise should help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing kidney disease.
At least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as cycling or fast walking every week is recommended.
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Be carefulwith painkillers
Kidney disease can be caused bytaking too many non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) , such as aspirin and ibuprofen , or taking them for longer than recommended.
If you need to take painkillers,make sure you follow the instructions that come with the medication.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 25 Nov 2016
Introduction
Find out what chronic kidney disease (CKD) is, including what the symptoms are, how it's diagnosed and how it can be treated.
Symptoms
Find out about the main symptoms of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and when to get medical advice.
Diagnosis
Find out how chronic kidney disease (CKD) is diagnosed, who should get tested and what the stages of CKD mean.
Treatment
Find out about the main treatments for chronic kidney disease (CKD), including lifestyle changes, medication, dialysis and kidney transplants.
Living with
Read advice about living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including how to keep yourself as healthy as possible.
Prevention
Read about what you can do to reduce your risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).
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