Not only affecting the cardiovascular system, cold weather can also negatively affect kidney health, especially in indirect ways that many people often ignore.
Dr. Pooja Pillai, an internist at Aster CMI Hospital (Bangalore, India) said that in winter, the body sweats less, causing many people to feel less thirsty and not drink enough water. This dehydration condition forces the kidneys to work harder to filter waste out of the blood.
In addition, cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, which can lead to high blood pressure, a factor that puts long-term pressure on the kidneys. In addition, the body tends to urinate more in cold weather, changing fluid balance and affecting kidney function, especially in people with underlying diseases.
Common kidney problems in winter
According to experts, winter can increase the risk of contracting or worsening some kidney diseases. Dehydration is a common condition due to the habit of drinking little water. Urinary tract infections also tend to increase due to urinary incontinence and insufficient water intake.
In addition, more concentrated urine in winter can increase the risk of kidney stones. Cold weather is also associated with high blood pressure, a factor that directly affects kidney function in the long term. People with chronic kidney disease, diabetes or high blood pressure need to be especially careful during this time.
Why is winter a sensitive period for kidney health?
Dr. Pillai said that the body has many physiological changes in cold weather, from reducing thirst, increasing vasoconstriction to changing living and exercise habits. Lack of exercise, unhealthy eating and lack of blood pressure and blood sugar control also contribute to increasing the risk of kidney damage.
Although there is no evidence that winter directly causes acute kidney failure, the risk of kidney-related problems can increase if proper health care is not taken.
How to protect kidneys in winter
To protect the kidneys during cold months, experts recommend drinking enough water every day, even when you don't feel thirsty. Keeping the body warm helps maintain stable blood circulation and limit high blood pressure.
In addition, do not stop urinating for too long, maintain a balanced diet, limit salt, exercise gently and monitor blood pressure and blood sugar regularly. People with underlying conditions need regular health check-ups and avoid abuse of pain relievers.
