Guide · 7 min read
Protecting Your Kidneys: Prevention That Works
The proven steps to protect your kidneys — controlling diabetes and blood pressure, staying hydrated, and using medicines wisely.
Most kidney disease can be prevented or slowed. Because early disease has no symptoms, prevention means managing the conditions that cause it.
The steps that work
- ✓Control blood sugar if you have diabetes
- ✓Keep blood pressure in range
- ✓Drink enough water, especially in heat
- ✓Avoid long-term NSAID painkillers
- ✓Do not smoke, and limit alcohol
- ✓Stay active and keep a healthy weight
Get screened
With diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity or a family history, get a yearly urine albumin and eGFR test.
Be careful with medicines
Some over-the-counter painkillers and unregulated herbal products can harm kidneys. Tell your doctor everything you take.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can kidney disease be prevented completely?
Not always, especially inherited forms, but controlling diabetes and blood pressure prevents or delays most cases.
Does drinking more water protect the kidneys?
Staying hydrated helps prevent stones and some acute injury, but cannot reverse existing damage.
Sources
Related articles
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your specific condition.