Kidney failure is caused by chronic kidney disease (CKD), a condition affecting 30 million Americans.
CKD signifies lasting damage to the kidneys, which can worsen over time to the point that your kidneys may stop functioning. This is called kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). If your kidneys fail, you will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to live. Fortunately, you can find effective, compassionate dialysis care in South Texas in multiple locations in San Antonio and neighboring towns.
Although anyone can develop chronic kidney disease, some people are more at risk than others. Some factors that increase your risk for CKD include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart disease
- Having a family member with kidney disease
- Being African-American, Hispanic, Native American or Asian
- Being 60 years old or more
Can kidney failure be avoided?
Because high blood pressure and diabetes are among the leading causes of CKD, managing these conditions is the key to decreasing your chances of progressive CKD and kidney failure. If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, be sure to work closely with your doctor to keep your blood sugar and blood pressure under control. This is the best possible way to prevent kidney disease.
Making healthy lifestyle choices can go a long way to help prevent diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease, or help keep them in check. To lower your risk for kidney disease and the problems that cause it:
- Consume a low-salt, low-fat diet
- Get at least 30 minutes of exercise three to four times per week
- See your doctor for regular checkups
- Avoid smoking, vaping and using tobacco
- Limit alcohol
Award-winning kidney care in South Texas
At South Texas Renal Care Group, we are proud to be a recognized leader in treating chronic kidney disease. Our passion for providing people of San Antonio and South Texas exceptional care shines through in our dedication to being the best nephrologists we can be. This hard work has earned us a spot on Texas Monthly’s Super Doctors® list and Vital’s 10 Years of Community Service and Patient’s Choice awards.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 210-212-8622 or click here to use our online form.