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National Warning for Kidney Patients on Soaring Temperatures
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13/01/2009

National Warning for Kidney Patients on Soaring Temperatures

Media Release
National Warning for Kidney Patients on Soaring Temperatures

13 January 2009

Kidney Health Australia has issued a national warning to thousands of people suffering kidney disease to help avoid the impact of soaring summer temperatures.

Dr Tim Mathew, Medical Director of Kidney Health Australia said people with moderately severe kidney disease or on dialysis or a kidney transplant are vulnerable to extreme temperatures and it was vital that they stayed well hydrated and remained indoors in cool air conditioned areas. The preferred fluid for maintaining hydration is simple water.

"Any sign of dehydration such as confusion, headache, light headedness or collapse should be responded to without delay by contacting your local medical support.

"Every day our kidneys filter 200 litres of blood and it is vital especially in hot weather people remain hydrated, to ensure our kidneys (two small organs the size of our fists which in one year on average process 73,000 litres of blood) are able to work at maximum capacity. For those on dialysis it was essential to follow their own doctor's recommendations about fluid intake."

Dr Mathew said over 40 Australians die of kidney failure each day and approximately 2 million Australians may be affected by early-stage kidney disease and don't know it. Those at special risk from the heat are those with kidney function that is reduced to below 30% of normal and those people on dialysis treatment or with a transplant.

Media Enquiries:
Dr Tim Mathew, Medical Director Kidney Health Australia Mobile: 0416 149 863

Ron Smith National Media Communications Kidney Health Australia Mobile: 0417 329 201



 


 

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