Kidney disease often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only after significant and sometimes irreversible damage has occurred. Warning against the frequent use of over-the-counter painkillers such as Combiflam, nephrologist Dr Kishan A of Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, said people should be mindful of everyday habits that could gradually impair kidney function. Speaking as part of a health awareness initiative, the specialist emphasised that lifestyle choices, diet and unnecessary medication use all play a major role in maintaining long-term kidney health.
Dr Kishan explained that one of the biggest threats to kidney health is the excessive intake of sodium, a common feature of many processed and packaged foods. Popular items such as pickles, papads, packaged snacks and ready-to-eat foods contain high amounts of salt, which can increase blood pressure by causing the body to retain water. Persistently high blood pressure is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease because it gradually damages the tiny blood vessels responsible for filtering waste from the blood.
According to the nephrologist, individuals with diabetes, hypertension, heart disease or pre-existing kidney conditions are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of a high-sodium diet. While occasional consumption of salty foods is unlikely to pose a major risk for healthy people, regularly eating such foods can significantly increase the likelihood of kidney damage over time. He advised people to choose freshly prepared home-cooked meals whenever possible and reduce dependence on processed foods to lower sodium intake.
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Dr Kishan also cautioned against the routine use of painkillers such as Combiflam and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without medical supervision. Frequent or prolonged use of these medications can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney injury, particularly among older adults or those with existing health conditions. He stressed that painkillers should be taken only as prescribed by a healthcare professional rather than being used regularly for minor aches and pains.
To maintain healthy kidneys, the specialist recommended adopting simple preventive measures such as staying well hydrated, managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, exercising regularly and avoiding smoking. He also suggested replacing excessive salt with herbs and spices to enhance flavour without increasing sodium consumption. Regular health check-ups, especially for people with diabetes or hypertension, can help detect kidney problems early when treatment is most effective.
Kidney disease is often referred to as a "silent killer" because it can progress for years without noticeable symptoms. By the time signs such as swelling, fatigue, changes in urination or high blood pressure become apparent, kidney function may already be severely compromised. Doctors therefore stress the importance of preventive care, healthy dietary habits and responsible use of medications to preserve kidney health and reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease.
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