In today’s society, obesity has become an increasingly serious public health issue. However, many people may not realize that obesity not only affects appearance but may also harm internal organs, such as obesity-related kidney disease.
Definition of obesity-related kidney disease
Obesity-related kidney disease refers to a series of metabolic disorders caused by obesity, leading to kidney damage. Clinically, it manifests as kidney enlargement, increased glomerular filtration rate, and proteinuria, with renal biopsy pathology showing generally enlarged glomeruli, often accompanied by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).
Causes of obesity-related kidney disease
1. Obesity induces metabolic disorders
Excess fatty tissue leads to insulin resistance, which in turn causes hyperglycemia. Long-term elevated blood sugar can damage the tissue structure and function of the kidneys, resulting in endothelial injury and abnormal filtration function.
2. Obesity is associated with hypertension
Long-term persistent high blood pressure can cause renal artery sclerosis, ischemic atrophy of the glomeruli, renal tubular atrophy, and interstitial fibrosis, leading to a reduction in normal renal units.
3. Obesity triggers chronic inflammation
Studies have found that adipose tissue is not only a place for energy storage but also secretes various inflammatory factors such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These factors increase the levels of inflammation in the body and promote the development of chronic inflammation.
Symptoms of obesity-related kidney disease
Obesity-related kidney disease often has no obvious symptoms in its early stages; patients may only discover trace amounts of protein in their urine or mildly elevated serum creatinine levels during check-ups.
If not taken seriously, the condition may gradually progress, resulting in symptoms such as proteinuria, edema, and hypertension, potentially leading to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or kidney transplant as replacement therapy.
Diagnosis of obesity-related kidney disease
For obese individuals, regular kidney function tests are crucial. Common tests include urinalysis, renal function tests, and kidney ultrasound.
Urinalysis can detect proteins, red blood cells, and white blood cells in the urine, aiding early detection of kidney damage. Renal function tests can assess glomerular filtration rate, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen to understand overall kidney function. Kidney ultrasound can observe the size, shape, and structure of the kidneys to identify any abnormalities.
Prevention of obesity-related kidney disease
1. Control weight
A reasonable diet is the foundation of weight control. Reduce the intake of high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar foods while increasing the proportion of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and high-quality proteins.
At the same time, pay attention to portion control, avoiding overeating. Moderate exercise is also essential, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
2. Maintain good lifestyle habits
Such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol, avoiding late nights, and reducing stress.
Treatment of obesity-related kidney disease
For patients already diagnosed with obesity-related kidney disease, the focus of treatment is on comprehensive management.
On one hand, continue to control weight through dietary and exercise interventions; if necessary, medications or bariatric surgery may be used under medical guidance.
On the other hand, treat any kidney damage. If there are complications such as hypertension or hyperglycemia, it is essential to actively control blood pressure and blood sugar using antihypertensive and antidiabetic medications.
Additionally, depending on the extent of kidney damage, some protective medications may be necessary, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) or angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARB).
[Important reminder: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or treatment. Consult a doctor and follow medical advice for specifics.]
[Source: Jinshi City People’s Hospital Nephrology Department, Tuo Huali]
[Editor: YT]
