Impaired kidney function linked to brain disorders, stroke, or dementia

impaired-kidney-functionResearch suggests, having a kidney problem is directly related to a brain disorder.

Kidneys are responsible for removing waste from the blood, balancing salt and minerals in the blood, and producing rennin, which helps manage blood pressure. Kidney damage can result in kidney disease, impairing and disrupting their duties. When damage gets severe, kidney disease can actually become fatal.

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In the study, published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, researchers have found a link between kidney disease and brain disorders. It was previously known that stroke and dementia are common among kidney disease patients, but the reason behind this remained unclear.

Researchers gathered information from 2,645 participants and examined kidney function and blood flow to the brain. The findings revealed that kidney function was strongly linked to blood flow to the brain. Additionally, poor kidney function was linked to stroke and dementia in participants with hypoperfusion – decreased blood flow to the brain.

10 signs that you have kidney disease

In order to prevent brain disorders linked to kidney disease, it’s important to recognize its signs so you can begin treatment early on. Here are 10 signs indicating you may have a kidney disease.

  • Changes in urination
  • Swelling – ankles, feet, hands, face
  • Fatigue and constant low energy
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Taste of metal or ammonia breath
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling cold
  • Dizziness and impaired concentration
  • Pain in legs

Tips to help prevent kidney disease

Below are a few tips to help prevent kidney disease and keep your brain healthy.

  • Stop smoking
  • Manage blood sugar and diabetes
  • Manage blood pressure
  • Control and manage cholesterol levels
  • Minimize or reduce alcohol consumption
  • Always follow directions on medications
  • Maintain a healthy weight

By adhering to these tips, you can help lower your risk of developing kidney disease.


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http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-08/ason-kid073115.php
http://jasn.asnjournals.org/content/27/3/715

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Kidney disease risk higher in apple-shaped body than pear-shaped, study finds

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