When kidney function declines to around 15%, it signals a critical stage that demands attention. Exploring the symptoms and risks associated with kidney damage provides crucial insights into the impact on overall health.
The term "kidney function" commonly refers to the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR), representing the kidney's filtration efficiency. At birth, individuals typically possess a GFR of 120%, gradually settling to a baseline of 100%. A GFR plummeting below 15 necessitates dialysis, underlining the severity of impaired kidney function.
Examining the role of the kidneys reveals their pivotal function as a filtration factory, purging metabolic waste and recycling essential substances back into the bloodstream. When kidney malfunction occurs, vital proteins may be lost while waste accumulates, initiating a gradual deterioration of major organs such as the heart, brain, and eyes.
Preserving kidney function becomes imperative in managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Once kidney function diminishes, transplantation becomes the primary recourse, emphasizing the critical role of prevention in maintaining overall health.
Contrary to negative perceptions surrounding dialysis, it serves as a lifeline, especially considering the complexities of kidney transplantation. Fortunately, South Korea's robust insurance coverage for blood dialysis mitigates financial concerns, making it an accessible option.
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| Decoding Kidney Function: Understanding GFR Levels, Symptoms, and Dialysis |
Prevention, however, remains the linchpin. Collaborating with primary care physicians and family members to proactively address risk factors takes precedence. While dialysis may be required, swift initiation is crucial, with local hospitals increasingly equipped to provide dialysis services.
A common query pertains to the post-dialysis quality of life. Contrary to apprehensions, investing time in dialysis should be viewed as a commitment to reclaiming one's health. Engaging in regular physical activity, akin to dedicating time to exercise for general health, positions dialysis as an integral aspect of daily life.
Understanding that dialysis demands not only personal dedication but also familial and medical support is paramount. Dietary considerations, including meticulous washing of vegetables and fruit, potassium avoidance, and regulating calcium intake, become key aspects of post-dialysis life.
Regular education sessions with healthcare professionals, including nutritionists, impart essential knowledge on dietary modifications. Managing sodium intake and adhering to prescribed guidelines emerge as critical components, particularly for those with diabetes, requiring a stricter dietary regimen.
In essence, acknowledging the significance of timely dialysis and embracing the associated lifestyle changes fosters a positive outlook. Collaborative efforts between patients, their families, and medical professionals pave the way for a healthier post-dialysis existence.

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