Kidney Disease (Detection, Prevention) in Houston, TX

The primary function of the kidneys is to filter unwanted water and waste particles out of your blood and excrete them. In addition to this important function, this pair of organs also balances the levels of salt and other minerals, such as calcium and potassium, circulating in your bloodstream. Hormones that control blood pressure, promote red blood cell growth, and impact the strength of your bones are also produced in the kidneys. Unfortunately, kidney disease can be difficult to detect without professional testing due to the durability of the organs and their ability to function even while damaged to maintain our overall health. This is why it is important to have your kidneys diagnosed through blood and urine tests to be sure that any early signs of kidney disease can be detected and treated safely.

With the progression of kidney disease, a person can develop a number of complications, including a type of swelling called edema. Edema occurs when fluid and salt can no longer be effectively filtered through the kidneys. In turn, this can cause a buildup of these unwanted deposits in the legs, feet, ankles, and sometimes in the hands or face. As the kidneys experience more and more damage, other symptoms may also be associated with the failure of these organs to filter your body’s bloodstream, including:

• Chest pain
• Feelings of tiredness
• Shortness of breath
• Regular headaches
• Dry or itchy skin
• Unexpected nausea
• Vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss

The faster you learn about any abnormalities or problems with your kidneys, the better the chances will be of receiving effective treatment. Some of the steps that help to treat kidney disease can also have other benefits, like improving your overall health and even a decreased risk of developing heart disease. In the early stages, kidney disease will not normally have any obvious symptoms and testing is the only method available to determine how well your organs may be doing their job. Additionally, be sure to get checked regularly if you have other conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or even a family history of kidney-related troubles. Through blood and urine testing, Dr. Vital and the staff at Vital Health & Wellness Center will be able to gain an advanced understanding of how your body is functioning and take the important steps that may be needed, such as dietary and nutritional changes, to prevent further damage.

It is possible to protect your kidneys from damage by treating or managing other health conditions that may be causing complications, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. In addition to being tested to check for early warning signs, you can make certain lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, making healthy food choices, maintaining healthy sleeping habits, and adhering to a regular exercise routine. Although some of these changes may not be easy to implement, the lasting impact that they can have on the prevention of kidney disease, as well as your overall health, can be a noticeable and worthwhile benefit.

By taking part in tests for kidney disease detection, you may be taking the first step toward preventing serious health complications, including kidney failure or even heart disease. At Vital Health & Wellness Center in Houston, TX, Dr. Karla Vital and her staff of experienced professionals understand the importance of effective and thorough testing as a part of promoting health and longevity. With the valuable information provided through our testing methods, our team will be able to provide you with detailed results and the important information you may need to make effective changes to live a healthier life. Be sure to call our office today to schedule an appointment for kidney disease detection.