Treatment will depend on the underlying cause for the kidney failure.

Kidney failure may be reversible if it has developed suddenly due to an autoimmune disease, an infection or physical injury to the kidneys. For example, doctors can treat blood clots, kidney stones and any infections causing the sudden kidney failure.

“Chronic kidney failure is usually not reversible. The goal of treatment is to slow progression towards end-stage kidney disease,” says Dr Kee.

High blood pressure control is important in combating kidney disease. Doctors may prescribe angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angioten​​sin II receptor blockers (ARBs) to lower high blood pressure.

You can reduce stress on your kidneys with the following lifestyle changes.

• Eat a diet low in salt to lower high blood pressure.
• Avoid a high-protein diet that can overtax the kidneys.
• Limit alcohol consumption (max of two drinks per day for men, and one drink per day for women).
• Do not smoke.
• Maintain a healthy body weight (Asian should aim for a BMI of 18.5 to 22.9).
• Exercise 3 to 5 times per week, for a total of 150 minutes.