Overview

In a previous article, we discussed the close relationship between the liver and the kidneys. Our internal organs, while responsible for separate functions, have dependencies on one another where if one is damaged or fails, it can result in significant damage or failure of another.

If you are suffering from kidney disease, it is especially important that you understand the relationship between the kidneys and your other organs so you can identify the warning signs to look out for and speak to your doctor about.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among people who have kidney disease. In this article we discuss the connection between the kidneys and heart failure or disease, and what you may be able to do to prevent it.

The Relationship Between Kidneys and Heart Failure

People who suffer from kidney disease are more likely to experience heart disease as well. The relationship between the kidneys and heart failure are interchangeable in the fact that kidney disease can cause heart disease, and heart disease can cause kidney disease. However, this also means that learning how to prevent or control a disease with either organ can lower your risk of problems with another.

The kidneys are responsible for filtering and removing waste from your body. In cases of acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease, this function is impaired, causing waste to accumulate in the blood to unhealthy levels and putting stress and strain on other organs, like your heart.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes of chronic kidney disease. In cases of diabetes, high blood pressure may cause damage to blood vessels in the heart, causing heart disease to occur. In people with high blood pressure, the heart has to work harder to pump the blood supply to your other organs. Over time, this too can lead to heart complications. Any time the heart is prevented from pumping blood as optimally as it should, this can lead to heart disease or failure.

Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease or Failure

Due to the relationship between the kidneys and heart failure, if you have kidney disease it is important to have regular screening for signs of heart disease. At times, people may not show any symptoms of heart disease until significant damage has already been done or depending on the type of heart disease itself.

When present, symptoms of heart disease can include:

• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Feeling weak or tired
• Pain in your neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, or back
• Numbness, weakness, coldness, or pain in your legs or arms
• Swelling in your legs, ankles, and feet

Prevention and Treatment

It may not always be possible to completely prevent kidney or heart disease from occurring. However, lowering your risk for either is possible and something anyone can do. Simple changes to your diet to control your weight, as well as increasing physical activity are two areas in which you can make adjustments to today to decrease your risk. Monitoring and learning how to control your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol are also ways to mitigate disease.

If you have symptoms of heart disease or if you are suffering from any form of kidney disease, your doctor will perform regular exams to monitor the condition and prescribe treatment options. Certain medicines can help treat heart disease, including those that lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, and help your kidneys to function better. Your doctor will prescribe the right medication that is specific to your needs and situation.

Conclusion

Knowing the relationship between your kidneys and heart failure is the first step toward identifying prevention and treatment options. However, you are not in this alone – your doctor and healthcare team can help you better understand this relationship and work with you to find solutions.