5 min read
Your body's filters
Your two kidneys, each about the size of a fist, remove waste and extra water from your blood to make urine. They also help control blood pressure, keep bones strong and make a hormone that helps produce red blood cells.
Who is at risk?
Kidney disease often develops quietly over many years.
- People with diabetes or high blood pressure — the two most common causes.
- People with a family history of kidney failure.
- Those who often take painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac.
- People with HIV or repeated kidney infections.
Protect your kidneys
Small daily choices add up.
- Keep blood pressure and blood sugar under control.
- Drink enough clean water unless your doctor has limited your fluids.
- Limit salt and avoid using painkillers for long periods without advice.
- Ask for a simple urine and blood test if you are at risk.
If your kidneys fail
When kidneys work at less than about 15% of normal, treatment such as dialysis is needed. Termary's dialysis unit cleans the blood using a machine, usually several times a week. A dedicated team guides patients on diet, fluids and medicines.
