Dr. Wadehra’s five tips to kidney health

Dr. Davinder Wadehra, MD, FRCPC, MBA is a dual Canadian and American board certified Nephrologist and Osler’s Division Head and Medical Director of Nephrology. Dr. Wadehra is President of the North Peel Medical Society and a past President of the Northern Indian Medical and Dental Association of Canada. He is also member of the Sikh Advisory Committee to Peel Regional Police and Brampton Fire and Emergency Services.

According to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, as many as two million Canadians have chronic kidney disease or are at risk of kidney disease — and most are unaware of it. Talk to your doctor to better understand how your kidneys work and to determine if you need a blood test to know how well your kidneys are functioning.

Maintain a healthy blood pressure

Controlling your blood pressure can reduce the risk of kidney disease. High blood pressure can cause scarring of the filters in your kidneys and lead to a decrease in kidney function.

Control your blood sugar

If you have diabetes, controlling your blood sugar is very important. High blood sugar clogs all blood vessels including the filters of the kidney, which can lead to decreased kidney function.

Maintain a healthy weight

Eating a well-balanced diet and staying physically active can help. People with kidney disease who are underweight are at a higher risk of malnutrition, which can affect your energy level and how well you fight off infections.

Quit smoking

If you smoke, make a commitment to quit. Smoking increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, lung disease, kidney disease and cancer. Smoking can be particularly harmful if you have kidney disease, and can increase the risk of progression to end‑stage kidney disease which may require dialysis.

Be careful with painkillers

Be very careful about taking non-prescription medications, particularly over the counter NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen. Discuss all medications with your doctor or pharmacist before you take any. Certain other medications, toxins, pesticides and illegal drugs (such as heroin and cocaine) can also cause kidney damage.