How to Live With Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a chronic condition that has no real cure. The condition begins when the kidneys start having problems processing the body's fluids. There are many things that a person can do to minimize the effects of the disease to increase quality of life. Read on to learn how to live with kidney disease.

Instructions

• 1

  Check to make sure your diet includes enough protein. Your doctor may want to limit the amount of protein you eat to reduce the level of work your kidneys have to do. However, your body needs protein to help fix cells and organs.

• 2

  Limit the amount of salt you eat. Salt and foods that have lots of sodium can cause your blood pressure to increase. A normal blood pressure is needed for you to cope well with kidney disease.

• 3

  Watch how many bananas you eat. These fruits are rich in potassium, which can be difficult for sick kidneys to process. Other fruits and vegetables like raisins, figs, potatoes and soybeans that have lots of potassium, too, and should be eaten in moderation.

• 4

  Follow the treatment recommended by your doctor, but allow yourself a normal life. Kidney disease is only a small part of your daily living.

• 5

  Give up smoking. There are many long-term benefits of quitting smoking. At the very least, it will lower your blood pressure and help reduce complications caused by your kidney condition.

• 6

  Keep exercising. A regular active lifestyle is important not only for your overall health, but it will also help fight the depression that many kidney disease patients go through.

• 7

  Watch your stress levels. The difficulties of living with a chronic illness can increase your stress. If you get too stressed out, talk to your doctor about taking medication to lower it.