Amritsar, March 12: Experts at EMC Hospital, Amritsar emphasize that the kidneys are a vital organ responsible for purifying blood, removing toxins from the body, and maintaining the balance of water and essential nutrients. However, due to changing lifestyles, irregular eating habits, lack of exercise, excessive salt and sugar intake, inadequate water consumption, and stress, the risk of kidney diseases is increasing rapidly.
Every year, the second Thursday of March is observed as “World Kidney Day” to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health and ways to maintain it. This year, the day falls on March 13, 2025. On this occasion, EMC Hospital, Amritsar, is organizing special programs to educate people about kidney diseases and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Why Are Kidneys Important?
The kidneys perform several critical functions in our body, including:
✅ Blood Purification: Kidneys filter out waste and toxins from the body. ✅ Maintaining Water and Mineral Balance: Kidneys regulate the levels of water, sodium, potassium, and other minerals in the body. ✅ Blood Pressure Regulation: The kidneys play a crucial role in controlling blood pressure. ✅ Maintaining Hemoglobin Levels: The hormone Erythropoietin, produced by the kidneys, helps maintain hemoglobin levels, preventing anemia. ✅ Strengthening Bones: Kidneys activate Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health.
When the kidneys fail to function properly, toxins accumulate in the body, leading to severe health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, fatigue, swelling, vomiting, and even kidney failure.
Major Causes of Kidney Diseases
Dr. Chetan Mahajan, Senior Nephrologist at EMC Hospital, Amritsar, explains that kidney diseases can be caused by several factors, including:
🚨 Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys. 🚨 High Blood Pressure: Excessive blood pressure can impair kidney function, increasing the risk of kidney failure. 🚨 Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Tobacco and alcohol damage kidney blood vessels, weakening kidney function. 🚨 Excessive Painkiller Use: Frequent use of painkillers without medical advice can harm the kidneys. 🚨 Insufficient Water Intake: Inadequate water consumption puts extra pressure on the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney stones and damage. 🚨 High Salt and Sugar Consumption: Processed and fast foods elevate blood pressure and diabetes risk, leading to kidney damage.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy
✔ Drink Enough Water: Consuming 8-10 glasses of water daily helps flush toxins and prevent kidney stones. ✔ Follow a Healthy Diet: Include green vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-salt, and low-fat foods in your diet. ✔ Exercise Regularly: Engaging in at least 30 minutes of walking, running, yoga, or cycling daily benefits kidney health. ✔ Control Blood Pressure and Sugar Levels: Regular monitoring and medical advice can help manage blood pressure and blood sugar effectively. ✔ Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These habits are extremely harmful to the kidneys. ✔ Use Medications Wisely: Avoid excessive use of painkillers without consulting a doctor. ✔ Regular Kidney Checkups: People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity should undergo kidney tests every 6-12 months.
Message from Dr. Chetan Mahajan, Senior Nephrologist
Dr. Chetan Mahajan of EMC Hospital, Amritsar, states,
“Kidney diseases develop gradually and often show no early symptoms. Therefore, timely kidney checkups and adopting a healthy lifestyle are crucial. By maintaining a proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate hydration, we can prevent kidney-related ailments.”
Message from Dr. Rishabh Arora, Director of EMC Group
Dr. Rishabh Arora, Director of EMC Group, adds,
“The kidneys are a vital part of our body, yet we often neglect their health. Adopting the right diet and lifestyle can help prevent kidney diseases. EMC Hospital offers excellent facilities for kidney checkups and treatment. Our goal is to provide quality healthcare services and raise awareness.”
World Kidney Day serves as a reminder that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can safeguard kidney health. Taking proactive measures can help prevent kidney diseases. EMC Hospital, Amritsar, urges everyone to care for their kidneys, schedule regular health checkups, and adopt a balanced lifestyle. On March 13, let’s pledge to protect our kidneys and spread awareness among others.
