Pollution to Blood Pressure : People suffering from kidney disease need to take special care of their health during the winter season. During this period, drop in temperature, increasing air pollution in many cities and changes in daily habits can affect blood pressure, blood circulation and kidney health. These changes may seem small, but can increase problems for people whose kidneys are already weak.
Effect of cold on blood pressure and kidneys in winter
Increase in blood pressure is a big concern in winter. In cold weather, blood vessels shrink to maintain body heat, which increases obstruction in blood flow and blood pressure can go up. This increases pressure on the kidneys and can damage the fine parts that filter the blood. If blood pressure is not controlled for a long time, kidney disease can become more serious.
Danger of air pollution and kidney health
Air pollution can also increase this problem. Fine pollution particles like PM2.5 present in the air can cause inflammation in the body, oxidative stress and affect the way blood vessels function. Prolonged exposure to polluted air has been found to be associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure and kidney problems. People already suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease may be at greater risk.
Right balance of diet and fluids in winter
Eating habits in winter can also increase kidney problems. In this season, people often eat more hot, fried and salty foods. Also, drink more hot beverages like tea, coffee and soup to avoid cold. Eating fried foods and excessive salt can increase blood pressure and cause accumulation of water in the body. At the same time, some kidney patients may have swelling or difficulty breathing due to excessive fluid intake. Therefore, tea, coffee and soup should also be included in your total daily fluid intake and should be consumed as per the doctor’s advice.
Regular checkups and correct water drinking habits
Kidney patients should check their blood pressure regularly even in winter, get their kidneys checked from time to time and take the medicines prescribed by the doctor on time. Keep less salt in your food and do light exercise indoors when there is more pollution outside.
Despite feeling less thirsty in winter, it is important to take care of the quantity of water drunk. However, the need for water is not the same for all kidney patients. Especially patients with advanced kidney disease or dialysis should take water and other fluids as per the advice of their nephrologist.
How to keep yourself safe in winter
Overall, the risk of kidney related problems can be reduced by taking some precautions in winter. Keeping an eye on blood pressure, avoiding pollution, being careful about eating habits and getting checked by a doctor from time to time can be helpful in maintaining kidney health.
Input By : Dr. Vikram Kalra, Consultant – Nephrologist, CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi
FAQ
What problems can kidney patients face in winter?
Blood pressure can increase due to decreasing temperature and increase in pollution in winter, which puts pressure on the kidneys.
How does air pollution affect kidneys?
PM2.5 particles present in the air cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are harmful for the kidneys.
Should we drink less water in winter?
Despite feeling less thirsty, proper balance of water is important, but serious patients should consult a doctor.
How is blood pressure related to kidneys?
High blood pressure can damage the fine filtering parts of the kidneys.
What changes should be made in eating habits in winter?
Avoid fried and salty foods and limit the intake of tea and coffee.