By Rebecca Ejifoma
Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the World Kidney Day today amidst calls by experts on the need to avoid herbal concoctions and other harmful agents which could damage the kidneys.
Specifically, the experts warn against excessive intake of pain killer drugs, especially by women, during their menstrual circle.
The experts who spoke during the Healthy walk Awareness Week organised by the Healing Stripes Hospital and the capacity training of its medical team against kidney and Obesity at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David in Lekki, Lagos urged Nigerians to embark on regular check of their kidneys and cultivate lifestyles necessary for the prevention of kidney diseases.
According to the Head of the Hospital, Dr. Ezinne Onyemere, chronic kidney disease is a silent killer; hence, the awareness programme coupled with the walk.
“We set up the Hospital, a subsidiary of the RCCG City of David, to close the gap seen in the healthcare delivery. There is a lot of gap in awareness; hence, this one week programme aims to bridge it.”
Running of the theme, “Relationship between Obesity and kidney disease”, the Medical Expert explained that kidney disease has no age restriction. “We understand that Chronic kidney disease is expensive. So, we advice people to prevent it now,” she added.
Children and adults are prone to kidney disease. Some of the solution for children is drink plenty of water instead of their sugary drinks. “Take plenty of water for dehydration.”
Speaking further on the dialysis and treatment, she noted that with the available 10 machines currently at the Centre, patients are assured of a better delivery.
Also speaking at the event, the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Resource Person and Head of Clinical Services of the hospital, Dr. Adedamola Akinsiku traced the causes of kidney failure to high blood pressure, diabetes (the commonest cause worldwide) and over-the-counter medication such as painkillers, especially in women during menstrual pain.
“Please, avoid all forms of painkillers. Avoid herbal concoction and other harmful agents you consume. We do not know the chemicals in those concoction, which are sold to Nigerians for multiple cure.”
Proffering a lasting solution to prevention, Dietrician Nutritionist, Chimah Patience advises people to eat healthily and stay away from soft drinks.
“In the next five years, we are going to have a lot of patience with kidney failure. A lot of us don’t check the state of our kidney. The best solution is behavioural modification. The amount of food is not important, the quality is. Eat the right meals” she urged.
Also see facts you should know about analgesics and your kidney:
https://nigeriahealthonline.com/2017/03/09/analgesics-and-your-kidney-facts-to-know.nho/
