Kidney health: 5 everyday habits that can damage kidneys in women after 40, according to a US-based physician

In the United States, one in seven adults has chronic kidney disease (CKD), according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. This amounts to an estimated 35.5 million Americans. The lack of symptoms in the early stages makes matters worse. While several factors contribute to kidney disease, some everyday habits can be silently damaging this vital organ. In a video shared on Instagram, Dr John Valentine, a board-certified physician based in the US, explains five everyday habits that may put your kidneys at risk after 40 in women. What are they? Let’s take a look.

Taking ibuprofen regularly

Are you one of those people who like to pop pills like sweets? Well, this is your sign to stop. According to Dr Valentine, taking this over-the-counter pain and fever medication regularly may lead to kidney issues. “NSAIDs destroy kidney function permanently, and after years of use, you'll need dialysis three times a week just to stay alive,” the doctor said. The NHS also recommends taking the smallest dose for the shortest possible time to reduce the risk of side effects.

Drinking too little water

Your kidneys need water to function. Not drinking enough water can severely harm them. “Chronic dehydration causes your kidneys to accumulate toxins and form stones that can cause sudden kidney infections, leading to sepsis and death,” the doctor said. In the Eatwell Guide, the government recommends drinking six to eight cups or glasses of fluid a day. This, of course, varies from person to person depending on age, activity level, health conditions and other factors.

Eating too much protein

Proteinmaxxing is a huge trend these days. While your body needs protein to function properly, overconsumption can lead to several health concerns, including kidney damage. “High-protein diets force your kidneys to work overtime, filtering waste, and after 40 this causes irreversible kidney damage, requiring a transplant,” the doctor said.

Frequent urination

Do you wake up frequently at night to urinate? Frequent urination at night is not a good sign. According to Dr Valentine, it should not be ignored. “This is an early sign of kidney failure that most women dismiss until they're in stage four chronic kidney disease,” he said. According to the National Kidney Foundation, frequent urination, especially at night, can be a sign of kidney disease. “When the kidney's filters are damaged, it can cause an increase in the urge to urinate. Sometimes this can also be a sign of a urinary infection or an enlarged prostate in men.”

Holding your urine

This is your sign to stop controlling your urge to urinate. Women often tend to hold pee more commonly than men. “It's the one almost every woman does without realising the risk, holding your urine regularly. After 40, your bladder and kidney function decline rapidly. Holding urine causes bacteria to multiply and travel to your kidneys, causing severe infections. Repeated infections scar your kidneys permanently,” the doctor said. The physician noted that about 93% of women do this without being aware of its dangers.

“Women who regularly hold urine have five times the risk of kidney disease. Once your kidneys fail, you're on dialysis for life or you die waiting for a transplant. Kidney failure is irreversible.”

Bottom line

“If you don't want your kidneys to shut down after 40, stop these five habits now before it's too late,” Dr Valentine said. These everyday habits may seem harmless, but there is more than meets the eye. By removing these habits from your life, you can reduce your chances of kidney disease. These changes, over time, can lead to significant improvements in your health.

Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment, or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.



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