Kidney function test

[Le Chat]

I had a routine blood test, only to find that I have moderately impared kidney function. This came as quite a shock as I have never had a days problem in that area. The reading from the ckf test was 56, which is classed as stage 3 - there are 5 stages. Apart from avoiding salt (which I do anyway) drinking only moderate amounts of alcohol (which I do anyway), I was told to wait 6 months and have the test repeated. However, on reading various websites, I am quite worried as kidneys dont tend to self repair. Has anyone else had kidney problems and if so, what can be done?

[Amara]

Hi there - I think you are on the right lines with the salt and alcohol - make sure you drink plenty of water, have lots of fresh fruit and green leafy vegetables. Also you could try taking supplements of Folic acid,Vit B6 and Vit B12 (take all three) as this can help with kidney disease. Also a good multi vitamin and mineral capsule every day.

[kazminx]

hi, i had my kidney removed a few years ago. i had absolutely no warning, had never had an infection or anything..apparantly, it just started deteriorating when i was younger and continued. no reason, just happens. anyway, i drink quite a lot and i did ask my gp who said it should be fine!!! my blood and kidney function gets checked regularly and its fine. the only symptom i got was one day, i had a glass of wine and boom!!! doubled over in pain...it was such a relief to get it removed. are you in any pain or anything??

[petes_dragon]

My sister went for a scan for something else a while ago and they discovered that she only had one kidney - this came as a complete surprise as she had never had (and still hasn't had) any problems with the kidneys or anything else in that area!!!

However, every year for about the last 5 my dad has had a really bad kidney infection (hospitalised) and now needs to have a massive dose of IV antibiotics about once a year to hopefully prevent the infection re-occuring. Scan's of his kidneys, tests,etc have come back completely clear every time though!!

A xXx