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COPYRIGHT 2003 National Women's Health Resource Center
1. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 3.5 million Americans report kidney problems and 3.1 million report bladder problems. More than 26,000 Americans die of kidney disease each year in the U.S.
2. Drinking plenty of water is key to urinary system health. When you don't drink enough water, your body responds by retaining water in order to maintain the proper concentration of nutrients such as potassium and sodium. A good rule of thumb is to drink enough water and other fluids (at least eight glasses a day) to keep the urine clear or straw colored.
3. Discuss any of the following symptoms with a health care professional, should they arise: painful urination, pain in the lower back or pelvic area; frequent or urgent need to urinate; urine leakage; urine that smells or looks unusual, contains blood or appears foamy; and frequent urinary tract infections.
4. Combining over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be toxic to your kidneys. Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can also damage the kidneys. Ask your health care professional or pharmacist about adverse effects of any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs.
5. Stones are among the most painful and most common urinary tract disorders - about 10 percent of Americans will have a kidney stone at some point in their lives. Men are afflicted with...
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