4 Ways You Could Be Damaging Your Kidneys: An Insight From The Best Kidney Specialist In Surat

Posted On February 28, 2025

The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood, maintaining electrolyte balance, and regulating blood pressure. Despite their importance, many of us unknowingly engage in habits or lifestyle choices that could harm these hardworking organs over time. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often develops silently, without obvious symptoms, until significant damage has occurred.

By becoming aware of behaviors that could damage your kidneys, you can take proactive steps to protect their health and improve your overall well-being. Experts at SIDS Hospital, one of the best hospitals in Surat, share four ways you might be harming your kidneys and how to prevent long-term damage.

1. Overusing Painkillers and Medications

Many people rely on over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin to manage headaches, muscle pain, or chronic conditions. While these medications can be effective, overuse or prolonged use can damage your kidneys.

Why Painkillers Harm Your Kidneys

“Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce blood flow to the kidneys, limiting their ability to function properly. Over time, this can cause acute kidney injury or contribute to chronic kidney disease, especially in individuals with preexisting kidney issues or dehydration.”, explains one of the best kidney specialists in Surat, consulting at SIDS Hospital.

Other medications, such as certain antibiotics, antacids, and prescription drugs, can also be hard on the kidneys when taken in excess or without medical supervision.

How to Protect Your Kidneys

● Use painkillers only as directed and avoid long-term use without consulting a doctor.

● Stay hydrated when taking medications to help your kidneys process them effectively.

● Speak with your healthcare provider about the safety of any medications you take regularly, particularly if you have underlying health conditions.

2. Eating Too Much Processed Food

Processed foods, while convenient, are often loaded with excessive salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats that can wreak havoc on your kidneys.

The Role of Salt in Kidney Damage

Consuming too much sodium forces the kidneys to work harder to filter the excess out of your body. Over time, this can lead to high blood pressure, which is one of the leading causes of kidney disease.
Processed foods also contain phosphate additives, which can be particularly harmful to the kidneys when consumed in high amounts, especially for individuals already at risk for kidney problems.

How to Protect Your Kidneys

● Reduce your intake of processed and packaged foods like chips, deli meats, frozen meals, and fast food.

● Focus on a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

● Read food labels to monitor your sodium and phosphate intake, aiming for less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day.

3. Not Drinking Enough Water

Staying hydrated is essential for kidney health. When you don’t drink enough water, your kidneys have to work harder to filter and remove waste, which can lead to problems like kidney stones or urinary tract infections (UTIs).

How Dehydration Impacts Your Kidneys

When your body is dehydrated, urine becomes more concentrated, which can increase the risk of developing kidney stones and infections. Over time, chronic dehydration can strain the kidneys, potentially leading to reduced kidney function.

How to Protect Your Kidneys

● Aim to drink at least 8–10 glasses of water per day, depending on your activity level, climate, and overall health.

● Monitor the color of your urine — it should be light yellow or clear. Dark yellow urine may indicate dehydration.

● Our expert and one of the best kidney stone specialists in Surat also advises against excessive intake of sugary drinks, sodas, and energy drinks, as they can harm kidney health.

4. Ignoring High Blood Pressure or Diabetes

High blood pressure (hypertension) and diabetes are two of the most common causes of kidney disease. Failing to manage these conditions effectively can lead to kidney damage over time.

Why High Blood Pressure and Diabetes Harm the Kidneys

● High blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste and regulate fluids effectively.

● Diabetes can cause high blood sugar levels, which over time can damage the nephrons (the tiny filtering units in the kidneys). This is known as diabetic nephropathy.

How to Protect Your Kidneys

● Monitor Your Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar: Keep blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg and blood sugar levels within the target range set by your doctor.

● Adopt a Kidney-Friendly Lifestyle: Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and maintain a healthy weight.

● Take Prescribed Medications: If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, take medications as directed to prevent kidney-related complications.

● Schedule regular check-ups to monitor kidney function, especially if you’re at risk due to family history or existing conditions.

Final Thoughts

Your kidneys play an essential role in maintaining overall health, and it’s important to protect them by avoiding habits that can cause damage.

If you’re concerned about your kidney health or experience symptoms like persistent fatigue, swelling, or changes in urination, consult a healthcare professional at SIDS Hospital, well-known as one of the best hospitals in Surat. Early detection and prevention are the keys to keeping your kidneys healthy for years to come.

Treatment for Gallstones Without Surgery: How Endoscopy Can Help

Posted On February 25, 2025

Gallstones are small, hardened deposits of digestive fluid formed in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. While many gallstones don’t cause symptoms, some can lead to intense pain, nausea, and digestive discomfort, requiring medical intervention.

Traditionally, surgery (cholecystectomy) to remove the gallbladder has been the standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones. However, experts from SIDS Hospital — one of the best gastro hospitals in Surat — share that not everyone is an ideal candidate for surgery, and some individuals seek non-surgical alternatives. One promising option is endoscopic treatment, a minimally invasive approach to managing gallstones without the need for a major operation.

In this blog, we’ll explore how gallstones are treated without surgery, focusing on the role of endoscopy, its benefits, and who might be a candidate for this alternative approach.

When Surgery May Not Be an Option for Gallstones

Surgery to remove the gallbladder is a common and effective treatment for gallstones. However, there are situations where surgery may not be the best choice:

● High-Risk Patients: Individuals with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease or severe respiratory issues, may face increased risks during surgery.

● Preference for Non-Surgical Options: Some people may wish to avoid surgery for personal or cultural reasons.

● Asymptomatic Gallstones: For patients with gallstones that aren’t causing symptoms, non-surgical management may be considered.

How Endoscopy Can Help Treat Gallstones

Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at the tip to diagnose and treat various digestive conditions. For gallstones, a specific type of endoscopy called Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is commonly used.

What is ERCP?

ERCP is a specialized procedure that combines endoscopy and X-rays to examine the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. It is performed by our laparoscopic surgeons at SIDS hospital, facilitating the best endoscopy in Surat. During the procedure:

The endoscope is passed through the mouth, esophagus, and stomach to reach the small intestine.
A small catheter is inserted through the endoscope to access the bile ducts.
A contrast dye is injected into the ducts, allowing the doctor to see blockages or stones on X-rays.
If gallstones are detected in the bile ducts, the doctor can remove them using tiny tools attached to the endoscope or widen the ducts with a small incision called a sphincterotomy.

Who is a Candidate for ERCP?

ERCP is typically recommended for patients with gallstones in the bile ducts (also known as choledocholithiasis) or complications such as:

● Blocked bile ducts.

● Jaundice due to gallstones.

● Pancreatitis caused by gallstones.

While ERCP does not remove stones directly from the gallbladder, it effectively treats blockages and symptoms caused by bile duct stones, making it a valuable non-surgical option.

Benefits of Endoscopic Treatment for Gallstones

Our gastro specialists at SIDS hospital, being one of the best hospital in Surat, advice ERCP for its several advantages over traditional surgery:

Minimally Invasive

No large incisions are required, unlike traditional surgery.
Recovery time is significantly shorter, with many patients returning home the same day or after an overnight stay.

Effective for Bile Duct Stones

ERCP can remove stones from the bile ducts, alleviating symptoms and restoring normal bile flow.

Reduced Risk for High-Risk Patients

For individuals who cannot undergo surgery due to age or other health conditions, ERCP provides a safer alternative.

Preservation of the Gallbladder

Unlike cholecystectomy, ERCP does not involve removing the gallbladder, which may be beneficial for patients who want to retain this organ.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic

ERCP not only identifies gallstones and blockages but also treats them during the same procedure, eliminating the need for additional interventions.

What to Expect After ERCP

Recovery after ERCP is typically quicker and less painful compared to surgery. However, patients may experience mild side effects such as:

● Sore throat from the endoscope.

● Mild abdominal discomfort.

● Temporary nausea.

In rare cases, complications like pancreatitis, bleeding, or infection can occur. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely and report any unusual symptoms immediately.

Other Non-Surgical Options for Gallstones

In addition to endoscopy, there are other non-surgical treatments for gallstones, including:

● Oral Dissolution Therapy: Medications like ursodiol can help dissolve cholesterol-based gallstones over time. This method is best for small stones and may take months or years to show results.

● Shock Wave Therapy (Lithotripsy): High-energy sound waves are used to break gallstones into smaller fragments that can pass through the bile ducts.

● Dietary Changes: While not a direct treatment, maintaining a low-fat diet can help manage symptoms and reduce the formation of new gallstones.

Final Thoughts

For individuals with gallstones who are unable or unwilling to undergo surgery, endoscopic procedures like ERCP offer an effective and minimally invasive alternative.

If you’re considering non-surgical options for gallstone treatment, take advice from our gastroenterologist consulting at SIDS Hospital, one of the best hospitals in Surat, which has the reputation of performing the best laparoscopic surgeries in Surat.

Spinal Health 101: Importance, Risks, and Management Tips

Posted On February 9, 2025

Your spine is more than just a stack of bones, it’s the central support structure of your body, housing the spinal cord and enabling movement, flexibility, and posture. Experts from SIDS Hospital, one of the Best Hospital in Surat say that despite its critical role, spinal health often takes a backseat. Poor spinal health can lead to discomfort, mobility issues, and a ripple effect of health complications. In this blog, we’ll explore why spinal health is important, the potential complications of neglecting it, and actionable tips to manage spinal conditions effectively.

Why Is Spinal Health Important?

The spine is integral to nearly every aspect of physical health and well-being. Some of the best spine specialists in Surat available at SIDS hospital advice making spinal health a top priority because:

Protects the Nervous System:
The spinal cord, housed within the vertebrae, is a vital part of the central nervous system. It transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body, regulating functions like movement, sensation, and organ activity. Any disruption to spinal health can interfere with this communication.
Supports Mobility and Posture:
A healthy spine allows you to move, bend, twist, and carry out daily activities with ease. It also maintains your posture, which is crucial for reducing strain on muscles and joints.
Absorbs Impact:
The spine’s intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, cushioning the impact of activities like walking, running, and lifting. Keeping these discs healthy ensures smooth movement and reduces the risk of injury.
Foundation for Overall Health:
The spine influences other systems in the body. Poor spinal health can contribute to issues like headaches, reduced lung capacity, and even digestive problems due to poor posture or nerve compression.

Complications of Poor Spinal Health

Neglecting spinal health can lead to a range of complications that affect physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Some of the most common issues include:

Chronic Back Pain:
Poor posture, weak core muscles, or untreated injuries can lead to persistent back pain, which is a leading cause of disability worldwide.
Herniated Discs:
Over time, the intervertebral discs can wear down or rupture, causing pain, numbness, and weakness, often radiating to other parts of the body.
Sciatica:
Compression of the sciatic nerve can lead to sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back to the legs. This condition often results from poor spinal alignment or herniated discs.
Spinal Stenosis:
Narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the nerves, causing pain, numbness, and difficulty walking. This condition is more common in older adults.
Postural Deformities:
Poor spinal health can lead to conditions like scoliosis (curvature of the spine) or kyphosis (hunchback posture), which may worsen over time without proper intervention.
Reduced Quality of Life:
Persistent spinal issues can limit mobility, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks, exercise, or enjoy leisure activities. This often leads to a cycle of reduced activity and worsening symptoms.

Tips and Tricks to Manage Spinal Conditions

Whether you’re looking to prevent spinal issues or manage existing conditions, incorporating these tips from the best spine specialists in Surat into your routine can make a significant difference:

1. Maintain Good Posture

● Keep your head aligned with your spine when sitting or standing. Avoid slouching or craning your neck forward.

● Use ergonomic furniture, such as a chair with lumbar support or a standing desk, to reduce strain on your spine during work.

2. Strengthen Your Core

● Core muscles support the spine and help maintain proper alignment. Incorporate exercises like planks, bridges, and Pilates into your fitness routine.

● Engage in low-impact activities such as swimming or yoga, which strengthen the back and core without putting excessive pressure on the spine.

3. Stay Active and Stretch Regularly

● Regular physical activity improves spinal health by maintaining flexibility and strength.

● Stretch your back, neck, and shoulders daily to relieve tension and improve mobility.

4. Lift Properly

● Use your legs, not your back, to lift heavy objects. Bend at the knees and keep the object close to your body. Avoid twisting while lifting.

5. Sleep Smart

● Choose a supportive mattress and pillow that align your spine naturally.

● Sleep on your back or side, rather than your stomach, to avoid straining your neck and lower back.

6. Maintain a Healthy Weight

● Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can strain the lower back and accelerate spinal degeneration.

● Adopt a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many spinal issues can be managed with lifestyle changes, certain symptoms should be checked out by experts from the best hospital in Surat, including:

● Severe or worsening back pain.

● Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.

● Difficulty walking or loss of bladder/bowel control, which may indicate nerve compression.

● Persistent pain after an injury or accident.

Conclusion

Your spine is the backbone of your overall well-being, playing a critical role in movement, posture, and communication between your brain and body. Poor spinal health can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, and a diminished quality of life. Don’t let spinal issues hold you back. Take proactive steps today to ensure your spine remains strong and supportive for years to come.