Although it is widely known that CKD primarily impacts kidney function; most people don’t know that CKD also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CKD and CVD may appear to have no connection at all, but in reality, one affects the other.In CKD, the kidney’s ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood decreases. Over time, toxins and excess fluid build up in the body, resulting in health complications like high blood pressure, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances. This high blood pressure and toxin buildup increases strain on the heart and blood vessels, eventually contributing to the development and progression of cardiovascular complications.
Considering the consequences of cardiovascular complications in CKD, adhering to certain measures to control the risks and safeguard cardiovascular health is crucial.
Let us now explore ways to prevent CVD:
Blood Pressure Control:
Blood pressure is the primary reason for CKD patients to experience heart issues. High blood pressure strains the blood vessels and heart by making it work harder, leading to heart disease over time. Managing blood pressure requires lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes, regular exercise, and medication adherence.
Controlling Cholesterol:
CKD patients often experience high cholesterol levels due to irregular lipid metabolism, which results in atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Hence, controlling cholesterol levels becomes essential when it comes to CKD. This involves modifications such as increasing fibre, limiting fat intake, and planning a personalised diet plan according to one’s health concerns.
Diabetes Management:
Many people believe that diabetes doesn’t affect the heart. However, it is quite the opposite. High blood sugar levels cause inflammation and hardening of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks. Therefore, diabetic patients should consistently take their medications, stick to their diets, and attend regular check-ups to lower their risk of heart problems.
Stop Smoking :
Smoking is a deadly habit in general. However, it becomes a lot more dangerous for those who have CKD. Smoking can lead to immediate and long-term cardiovascular damage to blood vessels and increases blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of blood clots. Any treatment would be of no use if one does not stop smoking.
Regular Health Checkups:
Early detection of health concerns is always safer than suffering silently. Routine checkups for blood pressure, lipid profile, blood glucose, and cardiac evaluations, including electrocardiograms and echocardiogram levels, help one to understand poor health conditions in advance. This way, one can take precautions as per their health requirements.
Healthy Lifestyle:
Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is the ultimate game changer. In addition to medications and treatments, incorporating healthy habits such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications in CKD.
In conclusion, cardiovascular disease is a prevalent risk in general. It becomes more challenging when it comes to kidney problems. The good news is, one can always prevent it with active health management through preventive measures, optimising risk factor control, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Individuals with CKD can mitigate the cardiovascular risk burden and strive for better long-term outcomes. Are you seeking insights into the role of physical activity in promoting kidney health? Click here to read more! Additionally, if you’re interested in learning about a balanced diet for renal health, click here .