Understanding the connection between the heart and the kidneys is simple enough, but we commonly forget that when one of them is in trouble, the other one usually is as well—or is close behind. Fortunately, this is true in the inverse as well: Taking care of your heart is taking care of your kidneys. This article explores the connection between these two vital organs and describes a few ways that you can take care of your vascular system if you struggle with kidney disease.
Connecting The Cardiovascular System
The heart pumps blood throughout the body, the lungs oxygenate it, and the kidneys—connected to the vena cava and aorta—clean it up of toxins and waste before they throw it back into the veins and arteries. We then expel the waste and toxins in urine. By controlling sodium and water balance, the kidneys help the heart regulate blood pressure. Of course, blood pressure is a more complicated matter than that, but it is clear that kidneys are crucial. Finally, kidneys also regulate electrolyte balance, some of which are essential for the myocardium—namely potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium.
Cardiovascular disease, which is usually present in chronic kidney disease, is a leading cause of mortality in CKD, especially in its end stages. This is all the more reason to make sure we protect the heart as we protect the kidneys.
Caring For Vascular And Kidney Health: Detection
The first step to ensure proper health for both systems is detection. Of course, this may seem reductionist, but it truly is the best way to get ahead—and there is more to do. This is especially important for patients with diabetes, as it poses the primary risk for kidney disease. Nephrologists insist that a yearly blood test screening for glomerular filtration rate and a urine test looking for protein in urine are excellent ways to find any issues in your kidneys, as well as keeping an eye on your vascular well-being.
On the subject of proteins, the human body has a steady supply of proteins, like ferritin and elastin. Among these is albumin, a protein produced by the liver that is responsible for binding and transporting substances like hormones, vitamins, enzymes, and drugs throughout the bloodstream. It also keeps fluid from leaking from your blood vessels. Albumin is also the first substance to leak through to your urine when the kidney’s glomeruli start to fail. Consult your nephrologist if you present one of the following symptoms, as it may be an indicator of proteinuria:
- Foamy urine
- Frequent urination
- Swelling
What’s more, detection can help in finding the source of any issues you may present, allowing you and your doctor to make more informed decisions for your treatment.
Vascular And Renal Care: Practices
Kidney health starts with water—the clear, simple H2O compound without any additives. Water makes up most of our cellular structure. Constant hydration helps blood vessels work better, including those in the kidneys. It also allows your heart to pump more blood, and it helps oxygen reach your muscles. In the kidneys, it helps prevent stone-forming crystals and lets you produce more urine to expel more waste. Additionally, experts suggest a few more practices to keep both organs healthy.
Diet is also important. It is essential to keep a close eye on cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These two substances can influence the way that kidney and heart conditions evolve. Experts also suggest reducing salts, simple sugars—as you’d find in soda and candy—and saturated fats. In moderation, these substances should be no issue, but cutting them down while struggling with kidney problems is giving your kidneys a step up in their recovery. While we’re on the subject of intake, doctors also suggest reducing ibuprofen and other non-steroidal agents, as kidneys have no way to deal with them.
Activity and weight control are another priority. Physical activity is linked to overall physical health, and it is proven to impact patients with kidney disease positively. Of course, it is vital to stay hydrated and follow your doctor’s guidelines for exercising. Escalations in body weight pose an increased risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which exacerbate kidney disease. It also forces the kidneys to work overtime, filtering more waste than usual, which can increase the risk of disease. We encourage you to approach your nutritionist to explore the best solutions for you.
PRINE Health provides a multidisciplinary approach to kidney health. We pair nephrologists with other professionals to empower patients with kidney disease to live better, fuller lives. Discover the many ways PRINE Vascular can help you, as well as our other specialties.
