What are the first signs of kidney damage from alcohol? Can kidneys recover?

If exercising longer than an hour, sports beverages are also an option. These drinks contain sugar and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, which you lose in sweat. If you have more obvious water toxicity symptoms, the doctor may identify these sooner and initiate treatment.

Endurance athletes can reduce the risk of water toxicity from overhydration by weighing themselves before and after a race. This helps determine how much water they have lost and need to replenish. This condition is also more likely in people with kidney or liver disease. The Institute of Medicine has established guidelines for adequate water intake. They recommend that a healthy adult drink 78–100 ounces (oz) (about 9­–13 cups) of fluids per day on average.

Long-Term Consequences of Alcohol on Kidney Health

When consumed, alcohol travels through the bloodstream and is broken down primarily in the liver by enzymes such as alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). For instance, you should abstain if you are pregnant or under the age of 21. If you are being treated for a kidney-specific condition, please talk to your doctor about your alcohol intake. Your kidneys are complex, performing several important jobs to keep you healthy. Unfortunately, alcohol has the potential to interfere with each of these functions. Moreover, even if alcohol may help prevent kidney cancer, it can increase the risk of developing other cancers.

• Colas often include phosphoric acid, contributing to a distinct tangy flavor.
• However, it’s worth noting that decaffeinated coffee isn’t entirely caffeine-free, so those with severe caffeine sensitivity should also exercise moderation.
• While there is no set amount of water you should be consuming, many medical professionals recommend drinking at least two full glasses of water for every alcoholic drink you use.
• Acute kidney damage (also known as acute kidney failure) can occur due to binge drinking.
• Kidneys that have been overworked due to excess alcohol consumption don’t function properly.
• Starting with being able to recognize the warning signs and symptoms of dehydration.

Can Alcohol Hurt Your Kidneys? Health Matters

• The use of cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine (not a good idea for a host of reasons) can cause kidney damage in different ways.
• Your doctor may prescribe kidney medication or recommend programs in your area to help you.
• The kidneys are designed to retain water when dehydration occurs, but they cannot fully compensate when alcohol is still being used.
• These filter waste products from the blood and maintain the balance of water and minerals in the bloodstream.

All things considered, being mindful about how much sugar-free energy drinks you consume is key when it comes to protecting your kidney health and overall well being. The result could be permanent and irreversible damage to the organ itself. So, what are the first signs of kidney damage from alcohol? Exhaustion, urination changes, appetite loss, and fluid retention are among the earliest signs.

The Impact of Alcohol on Urination and Blood Concentration Levels

For example, if you have lung disease or Drug rehabilitation if you have congestive heart failure, then you might actually be on a fluid restriction. So make sure you drink enough fluids and remain hydrated so that your skin is supple with good elasticity. I love sharing medical information with you through articles and videos.

Taking that first step can feel scary, but Arkview Recovery makes it easier. From the moment you reach out, you’re met with understanding and support. We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you can drinking hurt your kidneys feel ready to dive right in. Recovery is about taking small, meaningful steps forward, and at Arkview Recovery, you’ll have the tools, the team, and the support to keep moving.

Hydration Helps Prevent Kidney Stones and UTIs

It’s also important to avoid binge drinking, a pattern of drinking that causes your blood alcohol content to reach 0.08% or higher. Blood alcohol content refers to the percentage of alcohol in your blood. Research from 2020 found that binge drinking doubled the risk of CKD progression. The Recovery Village Columbus offers comprehensive addiction treatment for drug and alcohol addictions and co-occurring mental health conditions. According to the NKF, one potential symptom of AKI is flank pain, which is pain in the side of the back, between the ribs and hips.

At ACIBADEM Healthcare Group, we are committed to healthcare excellence and providing world-class healthcare services to our patients. As a leader in international healthcare, we strive to deliver the highest quality of care and meet the needs of our diverse patient population. Discussing concerns with friends or family members fosters an environment where accountability thrives; consider joining support groups focused on reducing alcohol intake if needed.

• The body prioritizes metabolizing alcohol over other metabolic processes due to its toxic nature.
• This places additional stress on the kidneys as they work harder to maintain fluid balance.
• Hydronephrosis is the result of one or two swollen kidneys due to an accumulation of urine.
• Elevated blood pressure can damage the delicate filtering units within the kidneys known as nephrons.
• Located in a serene coastal environment, our facility utilizes evidence-based practices to help individuals recover.

It’s crucial to make dietary adjustments and choose kidney-friendly drinks. Always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or medication regimen, especially when including alcohol. When blood pressure is consistently too high, it can cause damage to kidney blood vessels and impair their ability to function properly. Over time, this can lead to CKD, which can also progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or renal failure if left untreated. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a dietitian specializing in kidney health can provide personalized recommendations.

High urine output (called diuresis) occurs, increasing strain on the kidneys by forcing them to alter their normal levels of function. According to the NKF, individuals who have sustained an alcohol-induced AKI may require dialysis, depending on severity. Dialysis is a procedure that involves filtering waste products and excess fluid from the blood. According to a 2022 review, symptoms do not usually manifest until stage 4 or 5 of the disease. At these stages, CKD moderately to severely impacts kidney function.

The best way to determine the root cause of your symptoms is to consult a doctor. It’s worth noting that the harmful effects of alcohol may outweigh the potential benefits. Limiting alcohol intake is important to protect your kidneys and overall health. In addition, consuming enough water is crucial to support proper kidney function. This happens when the kidneys lose the ability to properly filter blood and maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance (7).