Renal and coronary artery disease may progress parallel to each other, and there are many heart related diseases that affect the kidney, as well.
All our body parts and organs are vital for a happy existence; however, the heart is one of the most important organs, without which living is not possible. When faced with heart disease, treatment can be challenging, but when heart problems combine with another major organ failure, there can be fatal consequences.
Kidney and Heart Disease
The kidneys are one of the most important organs of the body. Kidney problems are common nowadays due to the increased number of toxins existing everywhere. The kidneys help us to deal with impurities circulating in the blood and people having kidney problems often face severe health issues.
The kidney’s function is to filter wastes and excrete fluid by using the bloodstream’s own natural pressure. There are a number of causes that can trigger damage to the kidneys, and some of them are:
- Decreased blood flow is usually caused by clogged arteries that, in turn, will cause kidney and heart disease.
- Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) – this may occur when tissues are not getting enough oxygen or when the renal artery is blocked or narrowed.
- Over-exposure to metals, solvents, radiographic contract materials, and certain types of medications.
- Myoglobin in the urine (myoglobinuria) – this condition occurs when one consumes excessive amounts of alcohol, tissue death of muscles for any given cause, or other disorders.
- Direct kidney injury.
- Infections such as acute septicemia.
- Blood disorders, which affect the heart and can lead into a joint kidney and heart disease.
There are many other causes, which can lead to the deadly combination of kidney and heart disease. If you suffer from kidney disease and heart disease at the same time, the outcome is likely to be fatal. Do everything in your power to avoid this dangerous duo attack.
The earlier you catch the signs and symptoms of kidney and heart disease the better for you. You need to seek professional medical assistance as soon as possible to prevent further complications that could further weaken the heart. The symptoms of kidney and heart disease are usually the same for each other:
- Shortness of breath
- Itchy eyes and skin
- Tiredness
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Upset stomach
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dark-coloured urine
- Swelling of the legs and ankles
- Changes in appetite.
If you or a loved one have any of the symptoms listed above, it is advisable that you see a doctor as soon as possible. You may be able to avoid them from becoming more serious.
Prevention is Better Than a Cure
The only way to prevent a double failure of your body’s systems is to be constantly aware of your health’s situation by conducting regular check ups with your doctor and following his/her advice.
Knowing in time that you are in danger of some major failure, or that you will be faced with a serious disease should you not take precautions right away, will help save your life. Most people who have heart attacks never suspected one and usually end up in emergency room in a critical state. Take charge of your life and take care of your health today. Some of the main causes of kidney and heart disease can be avoided by taking certain measures; for instance:
- Control your blood pressure by following a diet plan recommended by your doctor;
- Avoid medications that can damage your kidneys;
- Keep your body well maintained by getting regular exercise;
- Limit alcohol consumption.
Pay attention to any signs or symptoms that may indicate that you have kidney or heart disease. Making an appointment with your doctor as soon as you notice any of them will help you avoid further damage to your heart and/or kidneys.
