Erie Seniors: March is National Kidney Month!
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health concern. CKD often goes undetected until it is very advanced (when someone would need dialysis or a transplant). But when it is diagnosed early through very simple tests, progression of CKD can be slowed or even stopped. Know your kidney score! Regular testing for everyone is important but it is especially important for people at risk.
6 Things Healthy Kidneys Do:
- Regulate the body’s fluid levels
- Filter wastes and toxins from the blood
- Release a hormone that regulates blood pressure
- Activate Vitamin D to maintain healthy bones
- Release the hormone that directs production of red blood cells
- Keep blood minerals in balance (sodium, phosphorus, potassium)
8 Problems CKD Can Cause:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Heart attack and stroke
- High blood pressure
- Death
- Weak bones
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Kidney failure (end-stage renal disease, or ESRD)
- Anemia or low red blood cell count
For local NKF services and upcoming events, visit the local National Kidney Foundation website serving the Erie area.
For information about Erie senior diabetes symptoms and prevention, please click here.
BrightStar Care of Erie proudly provides Home Health Care and Support for Seniors and Children, including 24 hour Skilled Nursing and In Home Care and Support in senior independent and assisted living communities. Additionally we provide Medical Staffing and In-Home Physical Therapy for pediatric, adult and geriatric patients, and Companion and Personal Care for Elders with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. We also provide Home Child Care, Sitter and Nanny services for Children and Support for New Mothers. At BrightStar Care of Pittsburgh our Registered Nurse Director of Nursing leads experienced, trustworthy, compassionate caregivers who provide a full range of services in the comfort and safety of your home. Our Caregivers are fully screened, insured and bonded, certified and/or licensed. We Support Veterans and accept most Long Term Care Insurance benefits, provide Hospice Care, Live-in Care, CNA, Caregiver, RN, LPN, RN Supervision, Compassionate Care, and Compatibility Guarantees. We are an ALS Society partner and Alzheimer's Association member, and also provide care for developmentally disabled individuals and those of all ages with mental health and behavioral health diagnoses. Other services include Safe Discharge and Transportation from the hospital or rehab facility, both short term and long term Post Op care, Pre Operation and Preparation help and assistance, and Client Monitoring for out of town family members. Proudly serving Erie County and North Central Crawford County including East Springfield, Albion, Saegertown, Cambridge Springs, Rockdale Acres, Union City, West Greene, Corry, Harborcreek, Wesleyville, Lawrence Park, Erie, Edinboro, North East, Waterford, Meadville, Cranesville, Fairview, Girard, Mill Village, McKean, Edinboro, Corry, Elgin, Lake City, North Springfield, and neighboring cities.