Alcohol, Renal Health, CKD and Everything You Must Know!

Drinking alcohol moderately or occasionally might not have any lasting impact on one’s health. However, binge drinking can damage one’s health in many ways. Binge drinking has detrimental consequences on the kidney that can even lead to acute kidney failure. A sudden decline in the kidney process is called acute kidney failure. This often goes away after a time, but it can periodically lead to lasting kidney damage.

One can experience a decline in kidney functions even without binge drinking due to regular drinking. While excessive amounts of alcohol can damage one’s renal health, it is more damaging for those with CKD. 

A person might not show any signs of kidney damage, but if they’re used to excessive drinking, the damage will appear and develop gradually. 

A person diagnosed with CKD is advised to limit their alcohol intake, while some are asked to stop it. 

Here’s how alcohol damages a person, 

The body loses its balance 

Heavy drinking can increase the risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Both these conditions are common causes of CKD. Chronic alcohol consumption also impacts one’s liver and makes one prone to liver damage. 

Excessive drinking is one of the major causes of chronic kidney diseases. It also interrupts the blood flow to your kidneys. 

Kidney pain, kidney stones and kidney infections 

Alcohol acts as a diuretic and dehydrates the person. Dehydration for a longer duration leads to pain in the kidney. If someone experiences kidney pain the morning after drinking, it can be a sign of dehydration, and one shouldn’t neglect it. Severe dehydration can lead to kidney stones and infections, which might deteriorate other bodily functions. 

Welcomes liver diseases

Excessive alcohol impacts your liver and puts pressure on the kidneys. Once your liver deteriorates, your kidneys start deteriorating due to extra activities. The majority of patients suffering from liver diseases are prone to developing chronic kidney conditions. 

Drinking beyond a limit is injurious to health. Everyone must discuss their drinking habits with their doctors to understand their health implications. Make lifestyle changes and seek professional help if needed. Ensure to maintain a balance in all aspects of life to make it healthier. Do you want to try some interesting yet renal-friendly drinks? Click here to try the amazing drinks curated by our dietician!