What is Kidney Damage?
Kidney damage or renal impairment refers to a condition where the kidneys can't filter wastes effectively. Multiple reasons including diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, or prolonged use of certain medications can cause significant kidney damage. Medical intervention is often necessary for severe renal damage, but kidney damage natural treatment has shown great results in combating renal damage when adequately complemented with conventional care. Natural cure for kidney damage promotes healing and improve overall kidney health by making judicious use of natural herbs for kidney damage.
Cause of Kidney Damage
- Trauma
- Dehydration
- Hypertension
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Glomerulonephritis
- Polycystic Kidney Disease
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus
- Chronic Kidney Stones
- Obstructions like stones, tumor, etc.
- Vascular disorders like renal artery stenosis
- Chronic or recurrent UTIs and pyelonephritis
- Prolonged use of NSAIDs, certain antibiotics, etc.
- Smoking
Who is at a Higher Risk?
- Higher risk groups for kidney damage are:
- Diabetics
- Hypertensive Individuals
- Elderly
- Individuals with Family History
- Chronic NSAID Users
- Obese Individuals
- Smokers
- Autoimmune Disease Patients
- Recurrent Kidney Stone Sufferers
How to Diagnose Kidney Damage?
- Blood Test
- Urine Tests
- Imaging tests like Ultrasound, CT, or MRI
- Biopsy
- Electrolyte Tests
- Urine Output Monitoring
Complications of Kidney Damage
If left untreated, kidney damage can lead to:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
- End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
- Electrolyte Imbalances
- Fluid Overload
- Heart Diseases
- Bone Diseases
- Anemia
- Infections
- Neurological Issues like Uremic encephalopathy or peripheral neuropathy
- Metabolic Acidosis
Kidney Damage Natural Treatment
Holistic treatment for kidney damage can be found in Ayurveda. Ayurveda offers a comprehensive herbal treatment for kidney damage that makes use of potent herbs and other approaches to treat this disease. The inclusion of diet and lifestyle changes is another major aspect of Ayurvedic treatment for kidney damage. Patients may be advised on diet and lifestyle habits for a quicker recovery and rehab.
Herbal Medicine for Kidney Damage
Several herbs have kidney-supporting properties. Herbs that are quite potent in supporting normal renal functions are:
- Dandelion Root: It acts as a diuretic and helps remove excessive toxins from the blood. In addition, it boosts renal functions by reducing oxidative stress in the renal tissues.
- Punarnava: It is a potent natural medicine for kidney damage. Punarnava comes with regenerative and antioxidative properties. Consuming this herb repairs damaged renal tissues and also promotes the regeneration of kidney tissues. it also helps eliminate excessive toxins from the body.
- Turmeric: Turmeric has curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Adding this spice to your daily meals may reduce inflammation in the renal tissues and alleviate the symptoms associated with kidney damage.
- Ginger: Ginger is long known for promoting healthy circulation of the blood and consuming it may also help arrest oxidative damage in the kidneys. Ginger is a holistic medicine for kidney damage.
Note – These Ayurvedic herbs may cause side effects in some patients. You must have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider before you consume any herb to improve your kidney health or treat any kidney-related disorder.
Lifestyle Changes for Holistic Treatment for Kidney Damage
1. Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is crucial for the effective removal of toxins from the body. It’s recommended to drink 8 to 10 glasses of fluids daily, though the exact amount may vary and one should consult their healthcare provider for the right quantity. You can also replenish your hydration needs with herbal teas and juices.
2. Adopt a Kidney-Friendly Diet:
- Low Sodium: Reduce salt intake to manage blood pressure and prevent fluid retention in the body.
- Potassium Management: Moderate the consumption of high-potassium foods like bananas, oranges, and potatoes.
- Phosphorus Control: Dairy products and processed foods have a high amount of phosphorus; moderate their consumption.
- Increase Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Berries, apples, and leafy greens are excellent for reducing oxidative stress in the kidneys; eat such food items for healthier kidneys.
3. Control Blood Sugar Levels: Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney damage. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is key for healthy kidneys. Consume whole grains, lean proteins, and non-starchy vegetables for healthier glucose levels.
4. Exercise Regularly: Engaging in moderate exercise has many benefits such as improved blood circulation, reduced inflammation, and better overall health. Activities such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming are ideal for kidney health, though, consult with the doctor beforehand.
5. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption: Smoking damages blood vessels, resulting in poor functioning of the kidneys. Similarly, excessive alcohol intake increases toxins in the blood, putting our kidneys under strain. Stay away from alcohol and tobacco.
6. Use Natural Supplements: Certain supplements may result in better kidney function. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, etc. should be consumed by renal patients.
7. Detoxify Naturally: Make use of lemon water, cranberry juice (unsweetened), and Apple Cider Vinegar to thoroughly detoxify your kidneys naturally.
Conclusion
Kidney damage can significantly impact quality of life, but apt and timely treatments and lifestyle modifications can greatly slow down the progression of the disease. Staying hydrated, adopting a kidney-friendly diet, making use of apt herbal remedies, and staying away from alcohol and tobacco are indispensable for healthy kidney functioning.