Kidney health is often ignored until serious damage occurs. Some common, everyday habits silently damage your kidneys and increase your risk of developing serious kidney disease. Dr Arjun Sabharwal, a Nephrology Registrar in the UK, is known for spreading awareness about kidney disease and chronic lifestyle problems in India through his Instagram and YouTube channels. He recently revealed three common mistakes that people make every day, which can gradually reduce kidney function, which impacts their entire body.
It is wrong to take painkillers daily
He said that if painkillers are taken occasionally, they are generally safe. However, excessive use without doctor’s supervision is dangerous. You can also try other methods for pain relief, such as physical therapy, stretching exercises, or medications that have less effect on the kidneys. People who frequently take painkillers should have frequent kidney function tests to catch early signs of stress or organ damage.
Using herbal supplements is dangerous
Many people believe that herbal remedies are safe, but Dr. Sabharwal says some supplements contain heavy metals like lead, mercury or arsenic. Taking herbal remedies can cause these toxins to accumulate in the kidneys over time and cause serious damage. Several studies suggest that many poor-quality herbal products may increase the risk of acute and chronic kidney disease. Avoid untested or unlicensed products and be wary of claims promising quick or miraculous results. Even natural products containing toxic ingredients can have dangerous consequences.
Ignoring high blood sugar
Chronic high blood sugar is a major cause of kidney disease. Increased levels of HbA1c in the kidneys can put constant pressure on the filtering units, which can upset their blood and water balance. According to Dr. Sabharwal, prolonged uncontrolled blood sugar significantly increases the risk of diabetic kidney disease. This risk increases further by repeatedly taking painkillers or taking bad supplements. It is important to control blood sugar to prevent kidney damage. A healthy diet, regular physical activity and medicines can help keep blood sugar levels under control. Regular urine and blood tests can be done to detect kidney damage before symptoms appear.