People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) typically experience few symptoms until the disease reaches a severe stage. At that critical point, CKD patients are at risk of complete kidney failure and will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.

A News Medical article by Yolanda Smith, however,  describes 10 ways patients can help stop the disease from progressing further.* The helpful article includes a brief video interview (seen below) of a female patient living with renal reflux disease, a common congenital form of CKD that can lead to recurring infection and eventual dialysis.

Smith, a pharmacist educated at the University of South Australia, emphasizes that “[i]t is important for people living with CKD to take active control over their health and well-being,” and encourages CKD patients to do the following.

1. Stop smoking

Smoking is linked to an increased risk of CKD complications.

2. Follow a nutritious diet

Your diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables.

3. Reduce cholesterol and restrict salt intake

4. Exercise at least 30 minutes each day

Low-to-moderate intensity exercises are recommended, such as walking and riding a bicycle.

5. Take your medications as prescribed

Smith says, “Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are indicated for patients with CKD, as they appear to have a protective effect on kidney function. It is important that patients take the medications as prescribed on a regular basis in order to get the most benefit.”

6. Get an annual flu vaccine

This will likely benefit people with CKD, states Smith, along with a one-time immunization against pneumococcal pneumonia.

7. Inform all healthcare providers of your disease.

This will help you avoid complications with any other treatments that can impact CKD, such as NSAIDs, like ibuprofen (including Motrin and Advil).

8. Know and enact ways of improving kidney function.

9. “Stay in tune” with your body.

This will help you look for and spot early warning signs.

10. Form a strong support network.

Doing this will help reduce the stress, pain, and anxiety that can accompany this chronic condition.

*Smith, Yolanda. (2018, Aug. 23). News Medical. “Living with Chronic Kidney Disease.”