Known Toxins - don't underestimate a little pill

no your kidneys Limit

Limit the use of over-the-counter or prescription painkillers that contain ibuprofen's they are: (Advil®, Motrin®), naproxen (Aleve®), and acetaminophen (Tylenol®).

These are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) that cause the blood vessels in the kidneys to shrink, and by doing so, cause less blood flow through the kidneys.

Prolong use can lead to kidney damage

If you take any of these drugs often, be sure to tell your doctor. Taking these drugs with caffeine can also further harm the kidneys.

Drink a large glass of water when you take an NSAID can help your kidneys flush the drug out.

x ray dye Tests

Avoid X-ray dye tests or have your doctor take steps to protect your kidneys. A less toxic dye test can be used (this costs more) and, the dye can be diluted and flushed out of your body with additional fluid.

Some doctors prescribe a drug called Mucomyst® to help protect the kidneys from the dye.

don't under estimate a common pain pill

Pharmacist's hold a wealth of knowledge. Seek and ask questions!

Know your own drug allergies

A drug that you are allergic to can lead to damaging the kidneys.

Ask about drug affects on the kidneys

Many prescribed drugs can have harmful long-term effects on the kidneys. If you are taking antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs or other medications and have a less than normal rating for kidney function, ask your doctor if other less harmful medications are available and if not, have your kidneys monitored during treatment.

Avoid the use of street drugs

If you use them, know that they can harm your health and seek help to stop. Be honest with your doctor about what you are using - holding back vital information only hurts you and could damage your kidneys.

Just put it out

In people with chronic kidney disease, research has linked smoking to an increase in the amount of protein in the urine.

In smokers with diabetes, kidney disease may progress twice as fast. Get help to quit smoking and prolong your kidney function.You can do it.

Keeping Your Kidneys Working Well

Visit your doctor for check ups.
Take all drugs as prescribed.
Tell your doctor of all vitamins, supplements, herbal remedies, over-the-counter pain pills, including pain patches.
Know your blood or urine test names and make sure you clearly understand what the results mean for you and your kidneys.
Don't be shy. Ask questions.