6 everyday habits that can quietly damage the kidneys

Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys can no longer adequately remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. Chronic kidney disease often progresses quietly over years and can eventually lead to kidney failure.

Several seemingly harmless habits may contribute to kidney damage over time.

Failing to manage blood pressure or blood sugar

Persistently high blood pressure and blood sugar can damage the blood vessels and tiny filtering structures inside the kidneys, The Times of India reported. Many people wait until symptoms appear before seeking treatment, even though kidney damage can progress unnoticed.

People with diabetes or high blood pressure should follow their doctor’s treatment plan, keep their condition under control and have their kidney function checked when advised.

Skipping kidney tests despite known risk factors

The kidneys can compensate for early damage, so kidney disease often causes no obvious symptoms at first. By the time swelling, changes in urination or persistent fatigue prompt someone to seek medical care, the disease may already be advanced.

People with a family history of kidney disease or previous kidney damage should ask their doctor how often they need to be tested. Blood tests can measure how well the kidneys are filtering, while urine tests can reveal signs of damage before symptoms develop.

Regularly holding your urine

Regularly waiting too long to urinate keeps the bladder full for extended periods and may increase the risk of a urinary tract infection. In some cases, an infection can spread to the kidneys. Repeated kidney infections may eventually impair kidney function.

It is therefore best not to make a habit of delaying trips to the bathroom for long periods.

Excessive consumption of sugary drinks can increase the risk of conditions that damage the kidneys. Photo by Van Anh

Not drinking enough water

Not getting enough water makes urine more concentrated, which may increase the risk of kidney stones in some people. Severe dehydration can also reduce blood flow to the kidneys and cause acute kidney injury.

Fluid needs vary according to a person’s health, body size, activity level and environment, though about two liters a day is a common rough guide for many adults. Drinking regularly throughout the day, and more in hot weather or after heavy sweating, can help prevent dehydration, according to WebMD.

Taking antibiotics without medical guidance

Certain antibiotics can impair kidney function, particularly when taken incorrectly. Drug-induced kidney injury can reduce the kidneys’ ability to filter the blood and, in severe cases, lead to acute kidney failure.

Antibiotics should be taken only when prescribed by a doctor and used exactly as directed.

Eating too much salt and added sugar

Diets heavy in sausages, processed meats, instant noodles, fast food and packaged foods are often high in sodium, fat and calories. Over time, they can contribute to high blood pressure, weight gain and metabolic disorders, all of which are associated with declining kidney function.

Choosing fresh or minimally processed foods and limiting salt can better support long-term health.

Added sugar can promote weight gain, obesity and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. Diets high in sugary foods and drinks may also contribute to high blood pressure, which can damage the small blood vessels the kidneys depend on to filter the blood.

It is recommended to limit added sugar to no more than 25 grams, or about six teaspoons, a day for most women and 36 grams, or about nine teaspoons, for most men, according to the American Heart Association.