Diuretics are commonly prescribed for high blood pressure or swelling caused by fluid retention. They help the body get rid of excess salt and water.
But when used too aggressively or without monitoring, diuretics can dehydrate the body, upset electrolyte balance, and increase stress on the kidneys.
7. Blood Pressure Medications
Here’s where it gets tricky. Some renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, a class of blood pressure medications, may affect kidney function over time.
But — and this is key — they are also essential for protecting the heart and controlling high blood pressure, which is one of the leading causes of kidney failure.
That means these medications should never be stopped suddenly. If you’re concerned, talk to your doctor. In many cases, the benefits outweigh the risks, but dosage and monitoring are critical.
Everyday Tips to Protect Your Kidneys
Medications may play a role, but there’s much you can do daily to keep your kidneys strong:
- Check your blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure is one of the biggest risks for kidney disease.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight increases the strain on kidneys.
- Control blood sugar if you’re diabetic. Elevated blood sugar slowly damages the kidneys’ delicate filters.
- Get urine tests. Even a simple dipstick test can reveal early warning signs like protein in the urine.
- Avoid self-medicating. Just because something is sold over the counter doesn’t mean it’s harmless.
- Cut harmful habits. Smoking and heavy drinking put kidneys under constant stress.
- Watch your cholesterol and triglycerides. Heart health and kidney health go hand in hand.
The Bottom Line
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