Symptoms alone cannot reliably diagnose kidney disease.
Healthcare professionals may use several tests, including:
- Blood tests measuring kidney function
- Urine tests
- Urine protein or albumin testing
- Blood-pressure measurements
- Ultrasound or other imaging when appropriate
- Additional tests depending on the suspected cause
Two commonly discussed blood measurements are creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
Urine testing can also help detect abnormalities such as albumin or blood.
Protecting Your Kidney Health
Instead of relying on a single herbal remedy, focus on habits that support kidney and cardiovascular health.
Control Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is one of the major risk factors for kidney damage.
Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment can help protect kidney function.
Manage Blood Sugar
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys over time.
If you have diabetes, following your treatment plan and monitoring blood sugar are important parts of protecting kidney health.
Stay Hydrated Appropriately
Adequate hydration is important for most healthy people, but people with advanced kidney or heart problems may have specific fluid restrictions.
If your doctor has given you a fluid limit, follow that advice rather than increasing your water intake based on an online recommendation.
Be Careful With Painkillers
Frequent or excessive use of certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be harmful to the kidneys, particularly in people who already have kidney problems or are dehydrated.
Ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist about appropriate pain-relief options if you have kidney disease.
Avoid Unverified “Kidney Cleanses”
Products marketed as kidney detoxes or cleanses can contain multiple herbs and ingredients whose safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Your kidneys already perform the body’s filtration functions. If kidney function is impaired, the answer is proper medical evaluation—not simply a stronger cleanse.
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
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