The story of Ridwan Fadhil (22), a young man from Cianjur, West Java, went viral on social media after revealing his experience of being diagnosed with stage five chronic kidney failure.
His habit of consuming sugary drinks and instant food was cited as one of the main contributing factors to his chronic kidney failure.
Bad Habits that Contribute to Chronic Kidney Failure
Ridwan admitted that he often consumes sugary drinks as a substitute for water. This habit is done every day, morning, noon, and night. In addition, Ridwan also often eats instant food and junk food. He started experiencing uncomfortable symptoms such as fatigue and heartburn. Subsequently, he was diagnosed with stage five chronic kidney failure in 2022 and had to undergo dialysis procedures eight times a month.
Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Failure
Internal medicine specialist Dr Ngul D Situmorang, SpPD-KGH, explains that chronic kidney failure is not caused by just one factor. The disease occurs when the kidneys can no longer perform their functions properly. These include filtering and removing waste, regulating red blood cells, and regulating blood pressure and salt levels in the body. Risk factors for chronic kidney failure include diabetes, hypertension, and an unhealthy lifestyle. Not all of these risk factors directly cause kidney disease, but a combination of several factors over the long term can increase the risk.
The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle
Dr Situmorang emphasises the importance of a healthy lifestyle to prevent chronic kidney failure. Initial steps include choosing a healthy diet that is low in fat, low in salt, and high in fibre. This diet can help maintain kidney function and prevent the accumulation of harmful substances in the body. In addition, regular exercise is also very important, as regular physical activity can help maintain kidney health and promote good blood circulation.
In addition, Dr Situmorang suggests always controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels to keep them within normal limits. This is important to prevent complications that can trigger kidney damage. Maintaining a normal body weight is also important in preventing kidney failure. Being overweight can increase pressure on the kidneys. Drinking at least 2 litres of water per day, or the equivalent of 8 glasses, is also highly recommended to help the kidney filtration process and maintain body fluid balance.
Dr Situmorang also reminded the importance of not smoking, as smoking can increase the risk of kidney failure. In addition, avoid the use of drugs that are not recommended. Some drugs can damage the kidneys if consumed without medical supervision.
He also emphasises that although sugary foods and drinks do not directly cause kidney failure, excessive consumption can be one of the risk factors, especially for those who already have conditions such as diabetes. For example, a person with diabetes has a higher risk of developing kidney failure if they frequently consume sugary foods without paying attention to their daily sugar intake. Therefore, it is important to balance the consumption of sweets with a healthy lifestyle to minimise the risk of developing kidney failure.
Importance of Early Detection and Risk Management
Early detection and risk management are also very important in preventing the progression of kidney failure. Ridwan himself experienced early symptoms such as anaemia, fatigue, and heartburn. Unfortunately, these symptoms are often underestimated and treated late. Ridwan admitted that he often felt weak and had difficulty sleeping but did not immediately see a doctor until his condition worsened.
The Impact of Kidney Failure on Ridwan’s Life
Since being diagnosed with stage five chronic kidney failure, Ridwan has to undergo regular dialysis. This procedure helps keep his body stable, although it does not cure his disease. Ridwan also has to change his diet and lifestyle to manage his condition. He admits that he often feels short of breath, nausea, and difficulty sleeping ahead of his dialysis schedule. This shows how important proper management is for chronic kidney failure patients.
The Importance of Health Education for the Community
Ridwan’s case serves as a reminder to the public about the importance of health education. Many people still underestimate the consumption of sugary foods and drinks and unhealthy lifestyles. In fact, these habits can increase the risk of various serious diseases, including chronic kidney failure. Ridwan hopes that his experience can teach many people, especially the younger generation, to care more about their health. He emphasises the importance of avoiding sugary drinks, consuming enough water, and maintaining a good sleep pattern.
Managing the Risk of Chronic Kidney Failure
Managing the risk of chronic kidney failure requires a holistic approach. Apart from maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly, it is important to monitor blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly, especially for those with risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension. Regular medical check-ups are also important for early detection of kidney problems.
The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle to Prevent Chronic Kidney Failure
Ridwan Fadhil’s story illustrates how important it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent chronic kidney failure. Excessive consumption of sugary drinks and instant food can increase the risk of this disease, especially if followed by other unhealthy lifestyles. Public education and awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle need to be improved to prevent similar cases in the future. Let’s make health our top priority and always adopt a healthy lifestyle in our daily lives.
Photo: TikTok @ridwanfadhil_
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