How Kidney Health Changes with Age in Men and Women

December 24th, 2024 by Fuad Elkhoury

What do we know about the incredibly significant role of the kidneys in the body? This wonderful organ helps to regulate fluid and electrolyte balance. It also removes waste and absorbs nutrients. When kidney function is impaired, it negatively affects the functioning of the entire body! Sometimes, a person’s life may even be at risk. Hard water, poor nutrition, bad habits – all this can disable the organ. Therefore, kidney disease is not uncommon in our time. As we age, the kidneys become less efficient. This leads to potential health problems. The most serious of these is kidney failure. Age-related decline in kidney function differs between men and women. How does kidney function change with age in both sexes? Let’s discuss age-related kidney changes.

Kidney Function

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine. Their main role is to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. Each kidney contains about a million nephrons, that are responsible for the filtration process. As blood passes through these nephrons, waste is removed and sodium, potassium, and calcium are reabsorbed into the bloodstream. In addition to filtration, the kidneys produce hormones and regulate blood pressure. It promotes overall homeostasis in the body.

Main Aging Effects on Kidneys

As people age, kidney function typically declines. Doctors call it age-related nephropathy. It involves gradually losing the kidney’s ability to filter waste and regulate fluid balance. The number of nephrons decreases over time. This reduces renal blood flow and impairs waste filtration. The risk of kidney disease becomes higher. Older people more often experience structural and functional changes in the bladder. They are more likely to be diagnosed with urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence. Diabetic nephropathy and hypertension can further accelerate the decline in kidney function in older adults.

Primary Kidney Gender Differences

The male gender is a risk factor for the rapid progression of kidney failure. Women are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease because of a higher incidence of urinary tract infections. Pregnancy is sometimes accompanied by high blood pressure or eclampsia, which can lead to kidney damage. The protective effects of estrogen in women help prevent kidney damage before menopause.

Higher levels of testosterone in men can sometimes contribute to the loss of kidney function. Moreover, men are sometimes more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors, including smoking or poor diet. This can further increase the risk of kidney failure. Men may be diagnosed with kidney failure earlier. So they may be able to undergo dialysis earlier than women. Regardless of gender, take care of your kidneys. After all, kidney failure can happen to anyone.

How Can Women Prevent Kidney Disease?

Get good prenatal care early in pregnancy. Treat urinary tract infections early to avoid kidney damage. If you have chronic kidney disease, learn about birth control methods that may harm your kidneys. Be sure to talk to your doctor about safe medications to take during pregnancy.

How Can Men Prevent Kidney Disease?

Ask your doctor about prostate treatments or hormonal medications that may negatively affect kidney health. If you have an enlarged prostate, find out if it is causing a blockage in your urinary tract.

Kidney Health in Men and Women

How can each person take care of their kidney health? Don’t neglect medical examinations. Your doctor will check the albumin-to-creatinine ratio in your urine to determine if there is kidney damage. If you have high blood pressure, pay special attention to your health. People with diabetes should also be careful. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibuprofen or naproxen, if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease.

Establish a healthy lifestyle. Exercise regularly and pay attention to your diet. Eat a diet low in sodium, saturated fats, and sugars. Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, fish, and poultry. Drink plenty of water. It helps your kidneys filter toxins and waste. Dehydration is harmful to this organ.

Try to give up bad habits. It’s not easy, but it’s necessary for your health. Smoking damages blood vessels. Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and also damage the kidneys. The more attentive you are to your condition, the easier it is to prevent illness. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, or weight loss products. Make sure medications are prescribed in the correct dosage for your age and kidney function.

Conclusion

Kidney disease can be prevented. Just see a doctor in time. Lead a healthy lifestyle: eliminate bad habits, eat a balanced diet, etc. A positive attitude and sensitive attention to your health are equally important. Are you looking for patient-oriented urological care? We are here! Our team of experienced urologists provides expert care for all the urological diseases. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!