Typically, people lose kidney function by about 1% a year after age 50. If you have a decline in kidney function faster than the regular rate associated with aging, you are in trouble.
There are several risk factors that can further contribute to renal decline. Below are some examples:
Painkillers
Frequent use of painkillers is one of the most common causes of renal failure. In the past, we have known that painkillers in the NSAID and COX-2 inhibitor categories can cause accelerated kidney function loss, especially in those with dehydration or liver problems.
Less well known to the public is the fact that the ubiquitous painkiller paracetamol or acetaminophen, if taken over a long period, can also lead to kidney failure. If you have chronic pain in any part of your body, you should consult a doctor to receive appropriate treatment as soon as possible. Refrain from taking painkillers for more than two weeks.
Fruits high in oxalate
Some fruits have high levels of oxalate, and eating too many can cause kidney damage. According to studies, star fruit, or belimbing, is rich in oxalate, which can precipitate in the kidney, causing kidney failure. If you like star fruit, eat them in moderation and eat the fruit whole instead of juicing it into smoothies to avoid overconsumption.
Medication for herpes simplex and herpes zoster treatment
These drugs can precipitate and form crystals during their excretion through the kidney, leading to kidney problems. If you must take these medications, don't forget to drink plenty of water. And inform your doctor if you have impaired kidney function so the medication doses can be adjusted and appropriately prescribed.
Marathon running
According to a paper from Yale University, marathon running can cause kidney damage in up to 82% of the study subjects. However, the kidney function can recover after two days of resting. The damage is related to dehydration or the drop in kidney blood supply during marathon running. Keep yourself hydrated at all times.
Depression or emotional stress
People with depression have a two-fold loss of kidney function compared to others. However, kidney function can recover if patients respond to the treatment of depression. As soon as you are aware that you have depression, seek medical care or practice meditation or mindfulness to relieve and improve your emotional state.
Sweeteners
According to a study of 3,000 women in the Nurses' Health Study, USA, there is an association between sweetener intake and the risk of faster kidney function decline. Consuming two or more servings a day of artificially sweetened soda can increase the risk of renal failure, which may be due to the change in gut bacteria. It is recommended to cut down on or avoid sweeteners. Keep in mind, however, that sugar can also cause fatty liver.
Glyphosate
Glyphosate is a chemical widely used as an agricultural weed killer. There was a proposal to ban glyphosate in Thailand in 2019 due to its concerning effects on humans and the environment. The most up-to-date study from Taiwan in 2022 linked kidney failure in farmers with glyphosate and other heavy metals. According to a paper by the Chulabhorn Graduate Institute and the Centre of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), in 2016, glyphosate residuals were found in all soybean samples in Thailand, but at levels below the acceptable daily intake based on the US and EU standards.
Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of kidney failure by 60%. And the more you smoke, the higher your risk of kidney failure. Smokers are four times more likely than non-smokers to develop the disease. If you are trying to quit smoking, consult with your doctor for proper therapy to help you quit smoking.
Vegetables and fruits consumption
According to a recent study by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, low fruit and vegetable consumption is linked to a higher risk of kidney failure in American adults, regardless of whether they have chronic renal disease. Consequently, eating the correct kinds of greens at meals can lower the risk of renal disease.
Symptoms of kidney failure
According to a trusted source at the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 90 percent of people are unaware that they have chronic kidney disease.
As kidney disease progresses, possible symptoms may include:
Prevention
Acute kidney failure is often difficult to predict or prevent. But you may reduce your risk by taking care of your kidneys. Try to:
Read the labels when taking over-the-counter pain medications. Taking too much of these medications may increase your risk of kidney injury. This is especially true if you have pre-existing kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Get proper advice on how to manage kidney conditions. Stay on track with treatment goals and follow your doctor's recommendations to manage your condition.
Live a healthy life. Exercise, eat a sensible, balanced diet, and avoid drinking alcohol.
Kidney failure can occur unexpectedly or as a result of long-term injury. Diabetes, high blood pressure, exposure to high levels of medicine, extreme dehydration, kidney trauma, and other factors are all potential causes of kidney failure. Seek appropriate medical guidance to determine the best treatment alternatives.
Author: Dr. Sira Sooparb, MD, Nephrologists, MedPark Hospital. Tel 02 023 3333.
Series Editor: Katalya Bruton, Healthcare Content Editor and Director, Dataconsult Ltd., Dataconsult’s Thailand Regional Forum at Sasin provides seminars and documentation to update business on future trends in Thailand and the Mekong Region. Email: info@dataconsult.co.th Tel: 02-233-5606/7