Smoking and Kidney Disease: A Looming Health Threat - Hiranandani Hospital Kidney

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Smoking and Kidney Disease A Looming Health
Threat - Hiranandani Hospital Kidney
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Smoking and Kidney Disease The Hidden Link
Understanding the Kidneys
Before we dive into the connection between
smoking and kidney disease, it's crucial to grasp
the pivotal role that kidneys play in our bodies.
These bean-shaped organs, located just below the
ribcage on either side of the spine, perform a
multitude of functions. They filter waste and
excess fluids from the blood, help maintain
electrolyte balance, and regulate blood pressure.
Healthy kidneys are essential for overall
well-being, and any damage to them can have
severe repercussions says Hiranandani Hospital
Kidney.
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Smoking and Kidney Disease The Hidden Link
Toxic Components in Cigarette Smoke
Cigarette smoke contains a cocktail of toxic
components, including nicotine, carbon monoxide,
and various carcinogens. When these substances
enter your bloodstream, they put an immense
burden on your kidneys. Over time, this can lead
to kidney damage as per Hiranandani Hospital
Kidney Transplant.
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Smoking and Kidney Disease The Hidden Link
Reduced Blood Flow
Smoking causes blood vessels to constrict and can
damage the renal arteries that supply blood to
the kidneys. This reduced blood flow can impair
kidney function, as the kidneys rely on a steady
supply of blood to perform their filtration
duties.
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Smoking and Kidney Disease The Hidden Link
Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Smoking triggers oxidative stress in the body,
which results in an imbalance of harmful free
radicals. This oxidative stress can cause
inflammation in the kidneys, leading to long-term
damage.
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Smoking and Kidney Disease The Hidden Link
Increased Risk of Hypertension
Smoking is a known risk factor for high blood
pressure (hypertension). Hypertension, in turn,
is a leading cause of kidney disease. The
persistent elevation in blood pressure can damage
the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing
their ability to filter waste products.
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Smoking and Kidney Disease The Hidden Link
Exacerbation of Existing Kidney Conditions
If you already have kidney disease, smoking can
worsen the condition. It can accelerate the
progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and
increase the risk of complications.
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