Obesity and kidney disease: what to know

The kidneys filter blood and help regulate fluid, salts, and blood pressure. Extra body tissue can increase the work of filtration, while related Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels that supply the kidneys.

Early kidney disease often causes no obvious symptoms. Swelling around the ankles, foamy urine, changes in urination, itching, nausea, or unusual tiredness can occur as problems progress, but these signs have other possible causes. A urine albumin check and blood test can find changes before symptoms appear.

Ask for a kidney review if you have Obesity, raised blood pressure, prediabetes, diabetes, or a family history of kidney problems. The review may include blood pressure, a blood creatinine test, estimated filtration, and urine testing.

Keep blood pressure and glucose within the range set for you. Drink according to your clinician's advice, avoid frequent use of anti-inflammatory painkillers unless advised, and check before using herbal products. Gradual activity, less salty packaged food, and a balanced eating pattern can support several risk factors at once.

Arrange prompt medical advice for new ankle or facial swelling, persistently foamy urine, blood in the urine, or a clear change in urine amount. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, fainting, or very little urine with vomiting or dehydration.

How will you assess my kidney function? Should my urine be tested for albumin? Which pain medicines, supplements, fluids, and blood-pressure targets are suitable for me?