On this World Kidney Day, 8 of the best Nephrologists & Urologists share their tips on how to care for your kidney

New Delhi: Dr. Abhishek K. Shirkande, DNB Nephrology MD Medicine, Gold Medalist, Consultant Nephrologist & Kidney Transplant Physician, S.L. Raheja-Fortis Hospital, K.J. Somaiya Hospital, Holy Family Hospital, Mumbai

As we celebrate World Kidney Day 2023, I'd like to take a moment to applaud, highlight, and support all efforts around the world to raise awareness and emphasise the importance of kidney diseases. Although we live in a world divided into 195 countries, kidney diseases have no citizenship, and no borders, and are a growing public health challenge worldwide. 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is regarded as a silent killer. 

Did you know that a person can lose 90% of their kidney function without showing any symptoms? 

Fatigue, loss of concentration, decreased appetite, swollen feet, breathlessness with exertion, and foamy or red urine are all symptoms of kidney disease. 

Stay fit, being active, and eating a healthy diet are all preventive measures for kidney disease. Check and control your blood sugar and blood pressure; drink plenty of fluids; avoid over-the-counter medications and excessive painkiller use; and have your kidney function checked on a regular basis.

Dr. Nitin Sonavane, Senior Consultant Nephrologist and Kidney transplant physician, Sunshine Hospital, Borivali East - Wockhardt Hospital, Mira Road – Gokuldham Medical Centre, Goregaon – S L Raheja Hospital, Fortis Associate, Mahim, Mumbai

Kidneys perform multiple functions.

Filters the blood and removes the toxins from our body, excreting them in urine. Maintains sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and calcium levels in the blood to promote normal functions of other organ systems. Kidneys maintain and control blood pressure. Kidneys produce the hormone erythropoietin required to make red blood cells, while the bone marrow makes them. Kidneys make active Vitamin D3, required for calcium, phosphorus, and bone metabolism.
The two most common illnesses affecting the kidneys are uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. Optimal blood sugar and hypertension control would significantly reduce the burden of kidney diseases in the community.

Dr. Hasit Patel, Nephrologist and Transplant Physician, DNB Nephrology (Apollo Chennai), At present  attached with HCG hospital, Ahmedabad