March is National Kidney Month

March is National Kidney Month, a time to bring awareness to kidney disease. 1 in 3 American adults is at risk for kidney disease. What puts you at risk for kidney disease? Major risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney failure and being age 60 or older.

Kidney disease often has no symptoms, and it can go undetected until very advanced. But a simple urine test can tell you if you have kidney disease. Remember, it's important to get tested because early detection and treatment can slow or prevent the progression of kidney disease.Ask these key questions to start a conversation with your health care provider about kidney health.

If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney failure or heart disease, you are at greater risk for kidney disease. The sooner you find out you have kidney disease, the sooner you can get treatment. By getting treatment early, you may be able to prevent or delay more serious health problems.

Chronic kidney disease is a serious condition that affects more than 30 million adults in the United States, yet people in the early stages may not have symptoms. Many people don't find out they have kidney disease until their kidneys are permanently damaged, which is why you should get tested early.

Three questions to start the conversation about kidney health with your health care provider.

Have these with you during your next visit.

1. Have I been tested for kidney disease and how healthy are my kidneys?

2. How often should I get my kidneys checked?

3. What should I do to keep my kidneys healthy?

People with early-stage kidney disease usually have no symptoms.

For more information visit http://www.kidney.org/prevention