Can Dehydration Cause Kidney Pain

Kidneys, often termed as the filtering units of our body, are vital for our existence. Their primary job is to filter blood; however, they are vital in carrying out other functions such as maintaining a balance between minerals, fluids, salts, and minerals, etc. in the body, aiding in the production of red blood cells and vitamin D, and assisting with the regulation of blood pressure. However, in the fast-paced lives of today, it has become increasingly difficult to take ample care of the kidneys. We often tend to forget to replenish our hydration needs. This can lead to dehydration which may lead to kidney damage. Ayurvedic kidney treatment considers water to be one of the best remedies for managing healthy kidneys.

Can Dehydration cause Kidney Pain?

Before answering this question, one must understand what dehydration really is. Dehydration is a condition when our bodies lose too much fluids and water in a short span. Some of the conditions that can trigger this condition are:

• Not drinking enough fluids
• Sweating too much
• Fever
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Taking certain medicines
• High environmental temperatures

What are the Symptoms of Dehydrated Kidneys?

Now, you must be wondering, “What are the symptoms of dehydrated kidneys?” Some of the symptoms often associated with dehydration or dehydrated kidneys are:

• Feeling thirsty and lightheaded.
• Dryness in the mouth
• Tiredness
• Dark-colored, strong-smelling urine
• Decreased frequency of passing urine

Now, coming to the question, “Can dehydration cause kidney pain?” The answer, unfortunately, is yes. It has been scientifically proven that when you are dehydrated for a long period, your renal functions decrease. When you are deprived of fluids for a long period, there is a build-up of waste in the body. This can result in the clogging of the kidneys with muscle proteins (myoglobin). This can result in kidney pain, swelling, and other symptoms.

Can Kidney Damage from Dehydration be Reversed?

Let’s assume you have been dehydrated for a considerable period and are experiencing symptoms such as kidney pain. It is only natural that you would think, “Can kidney damage from dehydration be reversed?” The good news is that you can completely reverse the damage that occurred in your kidneys due to dehydration. If the volume depletion has been severe, you may see a temporary fall in the GFR. However, if you hydrate yourself properly and take apt measures, GFR returns to normal levels and your kidney damage is reversed.

However, the only exception is when you dehydrate yourself frequently. In this scenario, there is a gradual build-up of waste inside the body. This starts to negatively impact the functioning of the kidneys and eventually leads to permanent kidney damage. Being unable to hydrate yourself appropriately once in a while does not cause any kidney damage, provided you replenish your hydration needs quickly. However, frequent dehydration can cause serious damage to kidney tissues and overall renal functioning.

Kidney Disease Treatment in Ayurveda

Ayurvedic treatment for dehydration is quite simple. Just drink enough water, and replenish yourself with fruit juices, vegetable juices, etc. If, however, you are suffering from other renal disorders such as a kidney infection, Ayurvedic treatment for kidney infection recommends potent drugs and effective home remedies to thoroughly treat those infections. Some effective home remedies for kidney infections are:

• Water: Staying well-hydrated is perhaps the easiest, most convenient, and most inexpensive way to keep your kidneys healthy. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day.
• Cranberry Juice: Cranberry juice has shown excellent results in treating renal infections. A glass of unsweetened cranberry juice a day is good for overall renal health. However, consult with your healthcare provider beforehand.
• Avoid Caffeine: Caffeinated products such as tea, coffee, etc. can dehydrate you and negatively impact your renal health as well; avoid them.
• No Alcohol and Tobacco: Both alcohol and tobacco harm kidney tissues and cause other health ailments such as heart diseases, lung cancer, etc.; avoid them at all costs.
• Probiotics: Probiotics such as yogurt and curd improve digestion by increasing the count of good bacteria in the gut and they strengthen your renal functions.
• Vitamin C: Taking vitamin C-rich fruits like strawberries, citrus fruits, broccoli, black currants, etc. strengthens your immunity and fights oxidative stress in the kidney tissues.
• Ayurveda: Punarnava, kaasni, varun, palaash, shirish, and other such Ayurvedic herbs are excellent at treating renal infections and improving overall kidney health. However, always consult your doctor before consuming any drug.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or ACV is rich in malic acid and anti-bacterial properties. The antibacterial properties encourage a quicker recovery from renal infections. However, some people are allergic to Apple Cider Vinegar; do consult your doctor beforehand.

Depriving yourself off water and other liquids for prolonged periods can wreak havoc on the overall health of your kidneys. It is recommended that you appropriately hydrate yourself with water, fruit juices, herbal teas, etc. This way you will ensure that your kidneys remain healthy and your renal functions do not take a hit.