There are several pre-existing health conditions that may put you at a greater risk of developing kidney disease. If you fall into any of these categories, avoiding alcohol, or closely monitoring your use, may be your best bet. However, the effect of alcohol on kidney function remains inconclusive. In fact, some studies show drinking alcohol has no association with kidney diseases (9).

Chronic Kidney Disease: Alcohols Effect on Kidneys

These studies compare people with a gene variant that makes it unpleasant to drink to people without the gene variant. People with the variant tend to drink very little or not at all. One of these studies found people with the gene variant have a lower risk of heart disease — another blow to the idea that alcohol protects people from heart problems. Unveiling the harsh reality of families affected by alcohol abuse. Discover the impact, signs, and coping mechanisms for those who suffer.

• Drinking raises the risk of several types of cancer, including colon, liver, breast and mouth and throat.
• Because of the diuretic effect alcohol has on the kidneys, dehydration can occur.
• They also help your body maintain a healthy level of water.

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Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can eventually lead to acute kidney failure (also called acute kidney injury). Without proper treatment, acute kidney failure can be fatal. But, if you’re an otherwise healthy person, your body can typically recover from acute kidney failure with the appropriate medical attention. With chronic pancreatitis, you could lose the ability to produce or use insulin.

• If you feel a sharp stabbing pain or a dull ache in your back under the ribcage when you drink alcohol, it’s possible that it’s your kidneys or a kidney stone.
• The kidneys also maintain the proper balance of fluid and electrolytes.
• Our team of experienced, compassionate urologists are here to assist you.
• This is one of the most important things you can do to keep it functioning well.
• Resolve to be sober and stay strong on your path to sobriety.

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol on the Kidneys

Bothersome urinary symptoms such as painful urination, burning, frequent urination, urgency, or incomplete bladder emptying can impact quality of life. Certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and vasculitis, may cause inflammation that affects the kidneys. Yes, alcohol can cause high protein in the blood due to liver damage and inflammation. Therefore, while some might claim that red wine protects the kidneys and overall health, recent research findings suggest this claim needs careful reconsideration. It’s important to note that refraining from alcohol is preferable for overall health and well-being.

Taking steps to moderate alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help protect and support kidney function. When you drink heavily, your kidneys have to work harder to filter out the alcohol. And in rare cases, binge drinking — five or more drinks at a time — can cause a sudden drop in kidney function called acute kidney injury. This serious condition occurs when toxins from alcohol build up in your blood so fast your kidneys can’t maintain the proper fluid balance.

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• Try swapping out alcoholic drinks for alternative beverages such as juices and teas.
• It can also do serious damage to your organs, including your kidneys.
• Alcoholic kidney disease refers to kidney disorders caused by heavy and chronic alcohol consumption.

Some of the first signs of kidney damage from alcohol are increased urination frequency, changes in urine, weakness, and fatigue. Identifying these signs of kidney failure from regular heavy drinking is essential to your physical and mental health. Seeking medical how does alcohol affect your kidneys attention or alcohol addiction treatment is vital to address severe kidney damage and prevent further complications. Chronic alcohol use also interferes with the kidney’s ability to maintain blood pressure (14). High blood pressure damages the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their efficiency in filtering blood (15).

Stick to moderate drinking guidelines when determining your alcohol intake whenever possible, or consider abstaining if you have pre-existing kidney or liver issues. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production. Drinking alcohol causes your kidneys to work harder to filter out the alcohol and maintain the right balance of electrolytes. An occasional drink might be okay, but you should talk with your doctor about drinking alcohol if you’re undergoing treatment for kidney cancer. However, https://ecosoberhouse.com/ alcohol consumption can have negative effects on the body and should generally be avoided if you want to keep your kidneys healthy.

• If you or your loved one have kidney problems caused by alcohol consumption, you may have an alcohol use disorder.
• Coconut water, apple cider vinegar drinks, and hot chocolate are great options.
• Understanding the complexities and challenges faced by wealthy individuals seeking help.
• Alcohol has diuretic properties that cause you to urinate more.

Safe Alcohol Consumption and Kidney Health

Discover how to cultivate a growth mindset for better mental health with practical strategies and support. Discover the importance of play for mental health and unlock benefits for wellness and stress reduction. If you notice any of these signs or experience any other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

However, if you have chronic kidney disease, you shouldn’t drink at all. So, if you struggle with misusing alcohol, it’s vital to seek treatment. If you only treat the kidney disease and continue to drink, you will not get better. Your kidneys have a primary role in balancing fluid in your body. It also keeps the protein in the blood and controls blood pressure. So, if you have one kidney, the damage could cause that kidney to fail.

Alcoholic Kidney Disease

Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in physical activities can reduce the risk of kidney cancer (31, 32). Staying hydrated also helps your kidneys function optimally. Moreover, even if alcohol may help prevent kidney cancer, it can increase Halfway house the risk of developing other cancers. In particular, studies have shown that alcohol can contribute to liver, breast, and colorectal cancers (28).