Winter dehydration threatens kidney health

Nephrologist says tea, coffee cannot replace water, recommends eight to 10 glasses daily

RAWALPINDI:

As temperatures plunge during peak winter, prompting people to stay indoors and reduce their water intake, a nephrologist has warned that winter dehydration poses serious risks to kidney health, including urinary tract infections, kidney pain and stone formation.

Dr Adnan Khan, a kidney specialist, stressed that adequate hydration remains essential during colder months, despite reduced thirst. He noted that winter habits significantly contribute to a rise in kidney-related ailments.

"Many people either stop drinking water altogether or limit themselves to two or three glasses a day, usually taken only with meals," he said. "This insufficient intake directly leads to an increase in kidney complaints during winter."

According to Dr Khan, dehydration commonly results in urinary tract infections, inflammation of the bladder or urinary passage, kidney pain and, in some cases, kidney stones. "The number of such patients rises markedly during the winter season," he added.

He attributed this increase to behavioural changes in cold weather, urging people to consume at least eight to ten glasses of water daily, even in winter. Dispelling a common misconception, he clarified that tea and coffee cannot fully replace water. "They may help to some extent, but they are not a complete substitute for plain water," he explained.

Dr Khan emphasised that maintaining proper hydration can help prevent infections, stone formation and recurrent kidney pain. He advised individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. "Ideally, one should consult a nearby nephrologist or urologist," he said, adding that while initial pain-relieving injections or medication may provide relief, follow-up care is crucial.

"Once the symptoms subside, it is essential to consult a specialist to assess any underlying kidney damage, stones or related issues," he noted.

He also highlighted the role of indoor heating in increasing dehydration risk. With doors and windows often kept shut, heaters reduce indoor humidity, leading to greater fluid loss through breathing. "This causes what we call insensible water loss, where moisture evaporates from the body during respiration," he explained, adding that this further strains the kidneys.

Dr Khan advised maintaining some ventilation in rooms and offices. "Using heaters in completely sealed spaces is not good for overall health," he warned.