When caring for a senior with kidney disease, medical professionals say it is important to keep blood pressure down. So I monitor blood pressure and quickly inform doctors of change. I also make sure I use low-salt alternatives when preparing meals. To compensate I add more flavor to recipes with fresh spices. These can include cilantro, garlic, ginger, onion, rosemary and sage. Keeping weight down is tied into better blood pressure, too. So I make walks and chair exercises part of the daily routine. And I am constantly on the lookout for signs of the kidneys failing. Symptoms include reduced quantity of urine, lower extremity swelling, feeling tired and weak, confusion and forgetfulness.
For more symptoms, here is a list from the Mayo Clinic.
