Winter brings hidden dangers for kidney health, expert warns

Winter does not directly cause kidney failure, but cold weather can trigger hidden habits and physical changes that put the organs at risk. Dr Uday Dipakrao Gajare, a nephrologist at AINU Visakhapatnam, explains that the season increases the chances of dehydration, blood pressure spikes, and infections.

Prevention Checklist

People often drink less water in winter because they feel less thirsty. However, fluids must be consumed at fixed intervals, though patients with advanced kidney disease or on dialysis must follow strict doctor-set limits. Cold air can also make blood vessels tighten and raise blood pressure. High blood pressure that remains out of control can slowly damage kidney function. Urinary tract infections can cause a burning feeling during urination, frequent trips to the bathroom, fever, and back pain. Patients should avoid taking over-the-counter drugs for these symptoms and instead seek medical help to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys. Salty foods like packaged soups, instant noodles, pickles, and salty snacks are common during winter and can cause the body to hold onto fluid and raise blood pressure. People should choose fresh meals and check food labels.

Daily Habits and Warnings

Cold weather often makes people less active, but walking inside the house or doing light exercises helps control blood pressure, blood sugar, and body weight. Certain painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and cause injury, especially when the body is dehydrated. Patients must not ignore a drop in urine output, especially if it happens alongside swelling, vomiting, or breathing difficulties. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or chronic kidney disease must keep their conditions managed. They should not change their prescribed medicines during a fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea without checking with a doctor first. Kidney disease often shows no symptoms in the early stages, making regular testing crucial for those with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of the condition.

Context

Maintaining proper hydration and managing blood pressure are standard medical recommendations for preserving kidney function throughout the year. Cold weather habits like eating salty comfort foods and reducing physical activity can compound existing health risks for vulnerable individuals. Medical professionals frequently advise routine screenings because chronic kidney conditions often develop silently before showing noticeable physical symptoms.