World Kidney Day: Eight things that can destroy your kidneys
Your kidneys work 24/7 to filter waste, balance fluids, and keep your body running smoothly. But some daily habits can damage them without you even realising it.
Here are eight things that can silently destroy your kidneys:
- High blood pressure
When your blood pressure is consistently high, it puts extra strain on your kidneys. Over time, this damages the small blood vessels, making it harder for them to filter waste properly. - High blood sugar
Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure. Excess sugar in the blood damages kidney filters, leading to protein loss in urine and, eventually, kidney disease. - Abuse of painkillers
Drugs like Felvin, Ibuprofen, and Diclofenac (NSAIDs) can damage your kidneys when used excessively or for long periods. They reduce blood flow to the kidneys, increasing the risk of failure. - Alcohol
Frequent heavy drinking dehydrates the body and overworks the kidneys. Alcohol also raises blood pressure, which increases the risk of kidney damage. - Smoking
Smoking restricts blood flow to the kidneys, making it harder for them to function. It also increases the risk of kidney disease and worsens conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. - Agbo and herbal concoctions
Many people assume herbal drinks are safe, but some contain toxic substances that can harm the kidneys. Without proper regulation, these mixtures can lead to kidney failure. - High salt intake
Too much salt raises blood pressure and forces the kidneys to work harder. Over time, this can damage the kidney’s filtering ability and lead to complications. - Poorly treated urine infections
Ignoring urinary tract infections (UTIs) or not treating them properly can lead to kidney infections. Frequent kidney infections increase the risk of long-term kidney damage.
Your kidneys don’t give early warning signs, so protecting them is crucial. Stay hydrated, eat healthily, manage blood pressure and sugar levels, and avoid habits that put your kidneys at risk.
If you notice symptoms like swollen feet, foamy urine, or persistent fatigue, see a doctor immediately. Your kidneys deserve better care.