Kidney Failure Myths: What You Should Stop Believing

Overview

Kidneys act as your body’s primary filtration system by processing large volumes of blood every day and removing excess water as well as waste products through urination. Unfortunately, in some cases, one or both kidneys can stop working on their own. While treatment options are readily available, kidney failure may cause stress in people, leading to misunderstandings.

Kidney failure is often misunderstood, and these misunderstandings can lead to myths that may be harmful to the person’s physical or mental health. These myths can deprive the patient of early treatment. To actively battle this, it is important to break down common kidney failure myths, clear up CKD myths, and address widespread dialysis misconceptions. By doing so, patients and caregivers will know how to make better decisions, improve results, and seek the required nephrological care. 

Myth 1: Kidney Failure Comes with Noticeable Symptoms

In most cases, a person with kidney complications may lose 60% to 70% of kidney function before noticing any red-flag signs. In simpler terms, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is known as a “silent killer”, meaning that it usually does not come with telltale signs, at least in the early stages. 

That being said, CKD awareness is essential, as it helps a patient take the right path forward. Some symptoms you should be on the lookout for include:

• Vomiting.

• Reduced or absent appetite.

• Nausea.

• Sleep-related problems

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• High blood pressure

Myth 2: Dialysis Is A Death Sentence

While dialysis may seem concerning, it is not a death sentence. One of the biggest dialysis misconceptions is the belief that your normal life ends with it. In reality, a patient going through multiple rounds of dialysis on a regular basis can still continue to work, pursue hobbies, travel, and lead a meaningful life.

Thanks to modern dialysis and patient-centred care, people can enjoy maximum flexibility. Dialysis is a health tool that sustains life, not limits it. 

Myth 3: Drinking Lots of Water Will Cure Kidney Diseases

It is true that people with kidney failure or kidney diseases have to maintain proper hydration. However, drinking too much water in hopes of curing kidney problems is not the wisest choice, as it will not magically cure the disease. 

Excessive water intake may lead to fluid overload in a patient, causing high blood pressure. It can also cause strain on the heart and lungs. In the case of kidney disease, it is wise to consult a specialist regarding your targeted fluid intake.

Myth 4: A Diet For Kidney Diseases Is Extremely Restrictive

Following a strict diet under normal circumstances can be hectic, especially a renal diet. Fortunately, it is a big misconception that renal diets are extremely restrictive. You may not have to give up your favourite foods; you simply have to make smart choices. 

Consume foods that are free of sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. Instead, opt for fresh, minimally processed foods that will be better suited to your nutritional needs. The best way forward is to consult a dietitian or nutritionist in order to create a plan that works for you.

Myth 5: Vitamin Supplements Are Your Friends

Before taking any supplements, make sure to consult a nephrologist for complete clarity, as some can end up harming your kidneys more than treating them. Some components in vitamin supplements can be toxic to organs and may interact negatively with your medicines. 

Moreover, some multivitamins contain minerals such as potassium or phosphorus, which can be extremely dangerous for patients who need to limit their intake. 

Myth 6: Dialysis is the Only Treatment for Kidney Failure

There are many myths revolving around the treatment for kidney failure and diseases, including but not limited to dialysis being the only option. While dialysis is required when kidney function drops to critical levels, nephrologists usually focus on treatment options that preserve kidney health and function. 

Some people may believe that certain herbs can cure kidney failure, but no such discovery has been made yet. In fact, some herbal products may even worsen kidney health. Lastly, kidney damage may not always be reversible, but it is also not a death sentence. People can still carry on with their normal lives while receiving the required treatment.

 

Tips and Tricks to Improve Kidney Health

There are many steps you can follow to ensure your body’s filtration system is in optimal working order, and most of them start at home.

For example, things that may put your kidneys at risk include a family history of CKD, heart disease, high blood pressure, or lifestyle mismanagement like obesity. In order to prevent kidney diseases and failure, a person can:

• Make efforts to lose weight 

• Stay active in order to control blood sugar levels

• Quit harmful habits such as smoking & drinking

• Maintain normal cholesterol levels

• Avoid the intake of high salt

• Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables.

If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, get regular check-ups and consult your doctor on how best to manage the conditions. 

How NU Hospitals Can Help

When it comes to kidney health, choosing a healthcare provider is critical. At NU Hospitals, we believe in evidence-based care for all our patients at all stages. NU Hospitals is a super-speciality hospital specialising in nephrology and urology. We are proud to provide comprehensive, patient-centred, and transparent care to all our patients.

NU Hospitals is one of the best kidney treatment hospitals in Bangalore, with state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team that provides comprehensive care.

Conclusion

They may be common, but it is important to realise the truth behind kidney failure myths for timely and effective treatment. By being aware of what’s fact and what’s fiction, you will not only save yourself from worsening your condition, but will also be able to avoid the mental stress that comes with misconceptions around kidney diseases and failure.

Before believing everything you read or hear, make sure to consult a professional. Awareness can be the most powerful tool in managing kidney disease and improving your quality of life.