Kidney Disease: Causes, Risks, and What You Can Do

When your kidney disease, a condition where the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. Also known as chronic kidney disease, it often creeps up silently—no pain, no warning—until your body starts to struggle with swelling, fatigue, or high blood pressure. Your kidneys work nonstop, cleaning about 120 to 150 quarts of blood each day. When they fail, toxins build up, fluid pools in your legs, and your body can’t balance essential minerals like potassium and sodium. It’s not just about aging. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the top causes, but many people don’t realize how easily everyday painkillers can damage them over time.

NSAIDs, a class of pain relievers including ibuprofen and naproxen. Also known as anti-inflammatory drugs, they’re common, cheap, and often taken without a second thought. But if you use them regularly—even just a few days a week for headaches or back pain—you’re putting stress on your kidneys. Studies show that long-term NSAID use can reduce kidney function by up to 30% in older adults or those with existing health issues. This isn’t rare. It’s a hidden risk that shows up in ER visits and late-stage diagnoses. And it’s not just NSAIDs. Some antibiotics, blood pressure meds, and even certain supplements can add up. Your kidneys don’t scream when they’re in trouble—they whisper. That’s why checking your blood pressure, watching for swelling in your ankles, and tracking your urine output matters more than you think.

People with chronic kidney disease, a gradual loss of kidney function over months or years. Also known as CKD, it affects more than 1 in 7 U.S. adults. often don’t know they have it until their kidneys are at 20% capacity or lower. That’s why simple blood and urine tests—creatinine, eGFR, albumin—are your best defense. If you’re over 60, have diabetes, or take daily painkillers, ask your doctor for these tests. You don’t need a specialist. Your primary care provider can order them. And if you’re already on medication for high blood pressure or diabetes, your kidney health should be part of every checkup. It’s not optional. It’s basic care.

What you eat matters too. Too much salt, too much processed food, too much protein—these can push your kidneys harder than they can handle. Drinking enough water helps, but it’s not a magic fix. The real shift comes from knowing your risks and acting before symptoms show. You don’t have to wait for dialysis. You don’t have to accept fatigue as normal. The tools to protect your kidneys are simple: know your numbers, cut back on risky meds, and talk to your doctor before adding anything new to your routine.

Below, you’ll find real, practical guides on how common medications like NSAIDs affect your kidneys, what symptoms to watch for, how to reduce your risk, and what alternatives actually work. No fluff. Just what you need to know to keep your kidneys healthy—before it’s too late.