Kidney health has gained increasing attention in Jammu and Kashmir. In a recent interview, Dr. Syed Sajjad Nazir, Professor and Head of Urology at GMC Srinagar, shed light on developments in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of kidney and urinary diseases in the region.

He began by explaining the basic role of kidneys. A healthy person has two kidneys that filter blood, remove waste, and regulate body balance. Even if one kidney fails, the other can often maintain normal function. However, uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension can gradually damage kidney tissue, leading to chronic disease.

Earlier, limited access to ultrasound meant many kidney conditions went undetected until advanced stages—tumors, stones, infections, cysts, or chronic kidney disease were often discovered late. Over the past two decades, improved imaging facilities, even in rural areas, have changed this. Early detection of kidney tumors has significantly improved treatment outcomes.

Contemporary Interventions and Surgery

Surgical management has also evolved. In the past, even small kidney tumors required complete removal of the kidney. Today, Stage 1 tumors can often be treated with partial nephrectomy, preserving healthy kidney tissue. This approach is cost-effective and has high success rates.

Immunotherapy has shown promise in selected cases, but surgery remains the mainstay of treatment. Laparoscopic surgery has further transformed care. Instead of large incisions, only two or three small ports are required. This reduces pain, shortens hospital stay, and allows faster recovery while preserving kidney function. Maintaining at least one healthy kidney is critical to avoid long-term complications.

Trends in Kidney Disease Cases

Dr. Sajjad noted that reported cases at GMC Srinagar have increased. However, this does not necessarily mean disease prevalence has risen. Improved awareness and better diagnostic facilities mean more cases are being identified early. There is no centralized disease registry yet, making exact prevalence difficult to determine. The key difference is earlier detection and timely intervention.

Prostate Health in Elderly Men

Prostate enlargement is very common in men above 50 years. The prostate is a small gland that helps produce semen. As men grow older, this gland naturally increases in size. When it becomes enlarged, it presses on the urine pipe (urethra), causing difficulty in passing urine, weak stream, frequent urination—especially at night—and a feeling that the bladder is not empty.

The good news is that not all patients need surgery. Many men improve with medicines. Drugs such as alpha-blockers help relax the prostate muscles and improve urine flow, while other medicines can gradually reduce the size of the prostate. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms.

If surgery is required, modern techniques are much safer now. Earlier, Monopolar TURP was used and had more complications. Today, Bipolar TURP uses normal saline and has fewer risks, less bleeding, and faster recovery. Regular follow-up is important because the prostate can enlarge again over time.

Urinary Bladder Function and Frequent Urination

Frequent urination, especially at night, can result from an enlarged prostate, diabetes, ageing kidneys, or bladder weakness. Dr. Sajjad emphasized that patients should not ignore this symptom. Early evaluation helps identify the cause and allows appropriate treatment.

Kidney Stones vs. Gallbladder Stones

Kidney stones are entirely different from gallbladder stones. Gallbladder stones often require removal of the gallbladder. Kidney stones, however, can usually be removed or shattered without damaging the kidney. Stones related to metabolic issues can be managed effectively.

Contemporary Approaches to Kidney Stone Treatment

Modern treatment focuses on minimally invasive techniques:

PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy): A small incision allows stone removal directly from the kidney.

RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery): A flexible scope is inserted through natural passages, and stones are fragmented using a laser.

These procedures involve less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to work—especially important for daily wage earners.

Medications generally do not dissolve kidney stones, except certain uric acid stones, which respond to urine alkalinization and increased fluids. Dr. Sajjad cautioned that relying solely on home remedies can sometimes harm the kidneys.

Bladder Cancer: Causes and Symptoms

In Kashmir, kidney stones and bladder cancer are among the most common urological problems. Smoking remains the primary risk factor for bladder cancer, particularly in rural populations where tobacco use is common. Genetic factors may contribute, but smoking is the leading cause.

The most important symptom is hematuria—blood in urine—which may appear intermittently and often goes unnoticed. Early detection through ultrasound and endoscopy allows tumor removal without major surgery.

Hydration and Kidney Care

Fluid balance is essential for kidney health. An average adult requires about 2–2.5 liters of fluids daily. This can include water, tea, lassi, or juices. Excessive intake—above 5–6 liters—can strain the kidneys and is not advisable, especially for those with kidney disease.

Moderation is key. Fluids may be taken throughout the day, but excessive tea and caffeine should be limited.

Public Awareness and Preventive Measures

Dr. Sajjad emphasized the importance of early detection, follow-ups, and healthy living practices:

Eat a balanced diet and eat lots of fruits.

Check your blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly.

Exercise regularly and drink plenty of water.

Do not postpone visiting a doctor if you have any urinary or kidney issues.

Mohammad Arfat Wani, is a writer and nursing student from Kuchmulla Tral, wania6817@gmail.com

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