We all know how dangerous smoking is for our health. By now we all know that cigarette smoke destroys the lungs. But the losses caused by this are not limited to this. Smoking is also a major risk factor for developing kidney disease. Yes, if you smoke cigarettes, it not only damages your lungs but can also damage your kidneys. If you are already suffering from kidney disease, then your condition can become even worse. Let us know from experts how smoking can damage the kidneys. About this, Dr Prakash Chandra Shetty, Urologist at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai is giving information.
Does smoking damage kidneys?
- Due to smoking, the blood vessels leading to the kidneys become narrow, due to which the blood flow decreases and the functioning of the kidneys deteriorates.
- Smoking is a major risk factor for high blood pressure, which over time puts pressure on the kidneys' delicate blood vessels. Due to this, they may be harmed.
- Smoking damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste products. This damages kidney function.
- Smoking causes inflammation in the kidneys, which contributes to the development of kidney disease. Smoking accelerates the ageing process of the kidneys, resulting in a premature decline in kidney function.
- Smoking is linked to high levels of protein in urine, which can cause kidney damage.
- For people who already have kidney disease, smoking acts as a catalyst, causing the person to develop chronic kidney disease. The harmful chemicals present in cigarettes contribute to the rapid deterioration of kidney function.
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