We’re always told that it’s normal for your sex life to slow down as you get older, and it is, but what if your libido has taken a harder hit than expected?
If you’re worried about a decreasing love life, there could be an underlying issue that’s covering more than some daily tensions and tiredness – and a surprising number of women are affected.
An incredible one in three Australians is at risk of kidney disease, and the most worrying statistic? You can lose 90% of your kidney function without noticeable symptoms – meaning you or I could be affected at this very moment.
It’s a silent disease that’s often overlooked for fear of something more prominent, but with so many of us already dealing with the effects of poor kidney health, it might be time to start seriously questioning that lack of commitment to your love life.
Of course, it’s not just a decrease in libido that could be bad news for your kidneys. Symptoms of kidney disease include a decrease in your ability to concentrate, weakening of your bones, swelling in arms and legs, decrease in immune system, impaired heart function and damage to blood vessels.
With many of these symptoms hard to distinguish from everyday aches and pains, it’s no wonder so many are suffering without a diagnosis.
“Kidney disease is a common condition which can lead to a range of health complications, such as heart disease. However, early detection of kidney disease can reduce the associated cardiovascular risk by 20- 50%,” according to James Nevile, a Senior Pharmacist at Amcal.
So, how can you check your own kidney health?
First, be aware that those most at risk of developing kidney disease are:
• People with diabetes
• Those who suffer from high blood pressure, have established heart problems or have had a stroke
• People who are overweight
• People who smoke
• Those of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander origin
If this could be you, and you want to check your kidney health, you don’t need to spend a small fortune in doctor’s appointments: KidneyCheck™ is a health screening test available at your local Amcal pharmacy to take away and do in the privacy of your own home. Developed by Kidney Health Australia, it allows you to check your urine for protein – one of the first signs of kidney damage.
“Unmanaged kidney disease can impact many parts of the body. However, there are treatments and self-management options available. The first step is detection of the disease – this enables a patient to have access to a range of care options,” says Nevile.
As with any condition, eating healthily to control your weight and making sure you exercise regularly will help with kidney function, and being aware of your symptoms is the first step towards improving your kidneys.
Brought to you by Amcal
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