Preventing Kidney Disease:Simple Steps For a Healthier Life

 

#by Sikinchi Shettima

Kidney Diseases on the Rise, Doctors Warn.

Yola Medical professionals are raising concerns over the increasing number of kidney disease cases among residents of Yola. Experts warn that poor lifestyle choices, self medication, and lack of awareness are driving the surge and urge residents to take preventive steps before it’s too late.

Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to properly filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. This condition can lead to a buildup of dangerous substances in the body, which may result in complications such as swelling, fatigue, high blood pressure, or even kidney failure. Often referred to as a “silent killer,” kidney disease usually shows no symptoms in its early stages, making regular health checkups crucial.

According to Dr. Inwa Yusuf of FMC Yola, some of the major causes of kidney disease include high blood pressure, diabetes, infections, dehydration, and the excessive use of painkillers and unregulated herbal mixtures. She emphasized that self-medication remains a dangerous habit among residents. “Most people don’t realize their kidneys are being damaged until it’s too late,” she said.

To prevent kidney disease, health experts recommend drinking at least six to eight glasses of water daily, reducing the intake of salt and processed foods, avoiding self-medication, managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and maintaining an active lifestyle. Regular medical checkups are also encouraged, especially for individuals with a family history of kidney problems.

Solutions to the growing crisis include early diagnosis, access to affordable testing, and health education. During the recent World Kidney Day event, hospitals across Adamawa provided free kidney function screenings. Many residents who participated discovered underlying health issues they were unaware of. Treatments for kidney disease vary depending on the stage but may include medications, dialysis, or kidney transplants in severe cases.

Health officials are calling on government agencies and non-governmental organizations to support awareness campaigns and improve healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural communities where access to screening and treatment remains limited.