The effect of kidney functions on brain health.
The kidneys and the brain seem to have little in common at first sight. Yet, they are closely connected. Both organs rely heavily on a fine network of small blood vessels. If these vessels become damaged, it affects both the kidneys and the brain.
Research shows that people with reduced kidney function are more often troubled by cognitive decline. Therefore, chronic kidney damage is included as a risk factor within the LIBRA score for brain health.
Kidney function is usually assessed with blood and urine tests. These tests look at:
the eGFR value, a measure of how well the kidneys filter the blood
the presence of protein in the urine
A reduced kidney function means that waste products and fluids are not properly removed. This can develop gradually and initially cause few symptoms.
Vulnerability of Small Blood Vessels
The small blood vessels in the kidneys and in the brain are very similar. Factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking damage these vessels in multiple areas simultaneously.
Accumulation of Waste Products
If the kidneys do not function well, certain waste products can accumulate in the body. This can lead to fatigue, concentration problems, and reduced cognitive ability.
Correlation with Other Conditions
Reduced kidney function often occurs together with high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. This combination increases the risk of brain damage.
Signal of Long-term Strain
Kidney damage usually does not occur suddenly. It is often a sign that the body has been exposed to unfavorable conditions such as high blood pressure or poor blood sugar regulation for a long time.
“My kidneys have nothing to do with my brain”
Kidneys and brain share the same vulnerable vascular system. Damage to one organ often indicates risks for the other.
“If I have no symptoms, there is no problem”
A reduced kidney function often shows symptoms only at a late stage. Damage can be present before you notice anything.
“Kidney damage is inevitable with aging”
Kidney function decreases slightly with age, but significant kidney damage is not a normal part of aging and deserves attention.
“There is nothing you can do about it”
Although existing damage cannot always be repaired, further decline can often be slowed or prevented.
Keep blood pressure and blood sugar under control
These are the most important factors to prevent further kidney damage while simultaneously protecting the brain.
Use medication as agreed
Some medications protect the kidneys and reduce the risk of further damage. Never stop these without consulting.
Be cautious with painkillers
Frequent use of certain painkillers can strain the kidneys. Consult your doctor if you need them regularly.
Ensure adequate, appropriate fluid intake
Drinking enough supports kidney function, unless your doctor has advised otherwise.
Get your kidney function checked
Regular monitoring is important, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular diseases.
Extra support is wise if:
kidney function is further deteriorating
multiple risk factors are present at the same time
you have doubts about medication or lifestyle advice
The general practitioner or internist can work with you to see how further damage can be prevented as effectively as possible.
At Remind, we've gathered the 15 most important modifiable factors for you. You can view each one individually and read about ways to manage them:
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