What late actor Satish Shah’s sudden passing due to kidney failure reveals about warning signs you shouldn’t ignore | Health News

Actor Sachin Pilgaonkar, a close friend, told News18 that Shah and his wife, Madhu, had both been unwell. “Unfortunately, even Madhu isn’t well. She has Alzheimer’s. This year, Satish got his kidney transplanted. He wanted to extend his life so that he could take care of Madhu. He was on dialysis. Earlier, he underwent a bypass surgery, which was successful.”

In a statement released on October 25, P D Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre confirmed: “Earlier today, the hospital received an emergency call regarding Mr Shah’s health. An ambulance with a medical team was immediately sent to his residence, where he was found unresponsive. CPR was started in the ambulance and continued on arrival at the hospital. Despite the best efforts of our medical team, Mr Shah could not be revived.”

Shah was beloved for his comic timing and memorable roles in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Ye Jo Hai Zindagi, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Hum Saath Saath Hain, Kal Ho Naa Ho, and Main Hoon Na.

His co-stars paid heartfelt tributes. Rajesh Kumar, his Sarabhai vs Sarabhai co-actor, told SCREEN, “This is the worst hour for me. I still cannot process that Satish ji is no more — it feels like I have lost my father.”

Actor Amrita Rao said, “Satish Shah Sir always brought a smile to my face both on screen and off the screen. Ishq Vishk and Main Hoon Na were special because of his presence. His humour and vibrancy will always live in my memory.”

What is kidney failure and how does it progress, if not managed properly?

Kidney failure, the condition that led to Shah’s death, can develop gradually or suddenly and may be life-threatening if left untreated.

Dr Jagadish Hiremath, a public health expert, tells indianexpress.com, “Kidney failure is a condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and maintain fluid and mineral balance in the body. When kidney function declines significantly, toxins begin to accumulate in the bloodstream, affecting the heart, bones, blood cells, and overall health.”

He adds that the “damage often progresses silently over months or years,” especially in people with long-term diabetes or high blood pressure. Without timely treatment, kidney function continues to decline until dialysis or a transplant becomes necessary. Early diagnosis and proper care can slow this progression.

Early warning signs you should not ignore

The early symptoms of kidney damage are often subtle and easy to overlook. Dr Hiremath notes that people may feel increasing tiredness, weakness, or difficulty concentrating as waste builds up in the body.

“Swelling in the feet, ankles, or around the eyes can occur due to fluid retention. Changes in urination patterns — such as frequent urination at night or urine that appears foamy — can also indicate trouble. Persistent nausea, poor appetite, and a metallic taste in the mouth may be warning signs. Uncontrolled blood pressure can also signal kidney damage. Anyone with these symptoms, especially those with existing health risks, should get a simple kidney function test,” he advises.

How to maintain kidney health

According to Dr Hiremath, kidney health begins with managing major risk factors like diabetes and high blood pressure under medical supervision.

“A balanced diet with less salt and fewer processed foods helps reduce strain on the kidneys. Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight supports overall metabolic health. Smoking and excessive alcohol should be avoided as they harm both heart and kidney function. People should not overuse painkillers, as some can damage the kidneys if taken frequently. Routine blood and urine tests allow early detection of problems,” he explains.

“These preventive steps can greatly lower the chances of kidney failure in the long run,” the expert concludes.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.