Summer heat can lead to decreased kidney function, dehydration, and potentially increase the risk of kidney disease. Rising temperatures can leave you without the fluids your body needs to function properly while summer temperatures reach extreme levels prompting sweat loss or dehydration. The human body can be up to 60% water, and this is not including the additional water your kidneys filter! 

Not only will excessive loss of fluids result in thirst or fatigue, but placing more unnecessary pressure on your kidneys. In some cases, dehydration could result in kidney disease and/or kidney failure if left unaddressed. Kidneys filter toxins from your body, help to maintain electrolyte balance, fluid levels, and regulate blood pressure. 

Excessive heat will severely limit the kidneys’ ability to do all these things properly, assuming you are dehydrated. In this article we will define how you can best protect your kidneys during the summer months, define the effects of dehydration on kidney function, and develop ways to remain safe and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year.

Why Summer Heat Is Hard on Your Kidneys

When it heats up, your body sweats to cool itself. This results in a considerable amount of fluid losses as well as essential electrolyte loss including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. If you do not hydrate adequately, your body is unable to maintain the internal balance that is necessary for kidney function. 

Here is how summer effects kidney health:

– You lose more fluids through sweating. 

– You produce less urine, which in turn leads to a build-up of toxins in the body. 

– Urine with a higher concentration of minerals leads to increased risk of forming kidney stones.

– Electrolyte loss that can lead to imbalances that affect a person’s filtration process.

How Dehydration Affects Kidney Function

Dehydration is known as one of the biggest health risks associated with summer months, and is also a direct threat to your kidney function. When your body is dehydrated, it does not have enough fluid. This means the volume of blood circulating through your body is reduced. Less blood is available for filtering waste in your kidneys. 

– Dehydration causes reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which measures kidney function

– Dehydration causes increased toxins in blood

– Dehydration creates concentrated urine leading to formation of kidney stones

– Dehydration in extreme heat can lead to muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) harming the kidneys

– Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalance impacting nerve, muscle, and heart function

Even mild dehydration can lead to prolonged impacts on your kidneys. Chronic dehydration can create damage that may not be reversible, especially if there are other health conditions present.

Understanding Kidney Disease and Summer Risks

Kidney disease is usually insidious as symptoms typically don’t occur until later stages. However, during the summer months, the risk of kidney disease can accelerate quicker when there is external stress from heat and lack of fluids. 

There are some individuals who are more likely to experience kidney disease in summer:

-Those with diabetes or high blood pressure

-Older adults and children

-Anyone requiring outdoor working conditions

-Athletes and sports enthusiasts

-Those with existing or prior kidney disease

If you are being treated for a kidney disease even mild dehydration can intensify symptoms or induce acute kidney injury (AKI).

Warning Signs of Dehydration That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Recognizing the signs of dehydration early is an important part of protecting your kidneys. Some symptoms are obvious while others might be less conspicuous.

Common symptoms of dehydration include:

– Dry mouth and/or skin  

– Fatigue or dizziness  

– Dark yellow or amber urine  

– Headaches  

– Muscle cramps  

– Low frequency and/or volume of urination  

– Rapid heart rate  

– Irritability or confusion

If you find any of these summer symptoms, your body, and your kidneys, may be in trouble.

Recommended Water Intake During Summer

Your daily water intake is personal, and there is not one answer for everyone. However, the general guideline is for adults to aim for 2.5 – 3 litres daily. In hot weather or when engaging in activities, aim for more like 3.5 – 4 litres, so adjust taking into consideration your health condition and level of activity. 

Tips to hydrate: 

– Use a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day  

– In your water add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar to rehydrate (natural ORS)  

– Eat plenty of hydrating fruits (watermelon, oranges, grapes, cucumber)  

– Drink before you’re thirsty – thirst is a later sign of hydration 

– Remain aware of fluid loss with caffeine and alcohol.

Maintaining Electrolyte Balance: It’s Not Just About Water

Drinking plain water is important, but when the temperatures rise, you should not forget to replenish electrolytes that your body has lost. Electrolytes are compounds that can conduct electricity and are helpful for maintaining normal nerve and muscle function, regulating pH levels, maintaining fluid balance in the body and are vital for proper kidney functioning.

Possible sources of electrolytes:

– Coconut water – natural and refreshing  

– Buttermilk- contains the probiotic lactic acid bacteria and sodium  

– Bananas- full of potassium  

– Leafy greens- high in magnesium and calcium  

– Oral rehydration solutions- bottle or powder forms that are always formulated with chemicals for rapid absorption

Try to limit the use of energy drinks, which are filled with sugar and other artificial contents unless a medical provider recommends them.

Diet Tips for Kidney Health in Summer

Food can either help or hinder your kidneys working properly, especially when your body is under heat stress. A kidney-friendly diet includes adequate hydration and limits toxic accumulations. 

Foods to include:

– Fresh fruits and vegetables (like cucumbers, oranges, berries)   

– Whole grain foods like brown rice or oats   

– Enough protein, preferably plant-based and simple lean meats   

– Low-sodium foods to reduce kidney burden  

– Natural diuretics, used with caution, like lemon water and ginger (in moderation) 

Foods to avoid:

– Processed snacks and salty snacks    

– Sugary carbonated drinks    

– Excessive protein supplements    

– Fried and fatty foods     

– Foods high in oxalates (only for individuals prone to stones)   

Kidney Stone Formation: A Common Summer Complication

The heat of summer and a low fluid intake are conducive to kidney stone formation. When urine is concentrated, minerals such as calcium, uric acid, and oxalates can crystallise and form calculi that block urine flow and cause pain. 

Strategies to prevent kidney stones:

– Drink more fluids  

– Limit salt and oxalates (e.g., spinach, nuts)  

– Balance calcium intake  

– Limit sugary food and protein  

– Be at a healthy weight and physically active

Special Care for People with Existing Kidney Issues

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and patients with a history of urinary tract infections, or stones, should be especially careful in the summer.  A single episode of acute dehydration may further complicate their condition. 

Here are some general guidelines for CKD patients:

– If you are on dialysis, also be adhering to your prescribed fluid restriction on doctor’s orders!  

– Watch for swelling or changes in urination or simply tiredness.  

– Stay away from over-the-counter medications that are stressing kidneys.  

– Having regular appointments with your nephrologist will make sure they are monitoring your condition.  

– Keep monitoring your blood pressure and blood sugars regularly. 

At Dispur Polyclinic and Hospitals, we offer individualized summer care plans for kidney patients so you can keep hydrated while not risking electrolytes or overload of fluid retention. 

Who Should See a Nephrologist in Summer?

If you are noticing: 

– Persistent changes to the colour or volume of urine

– Regular urinary tract infections 

– Discomfort in your lower back or abdomen

– Swelling in the face or feet 

– Nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite

– Sudden onset of fatigue or confusion 

These signs should prompt you to schedule an appointment with a kidney specialist. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and help prevent permanent damage to your kidneys. 

Tips for Outdoor Workers and Athletes

People who spend long days out in the elements (e.g. construction workers, delivery people, athletes) are at a significantly higher risk for dehydration and stress on the kidneys.

Must-do strategies:

– Hydration breaks every 30–45 minutes

– Wearing breathable, light-coloured clothing

– Avoiding direct sun exposure whenever possible

– Carrying water and electrolyte tablets

– Avoiding energy drinks that contain excessive caffeine

Dispur Polyclinic and Hospital offers kidney function tests (KFT) and basic screenings for outdoor workers during the summer months. Inquire about bulk, team or workplace health check-ups.

Kidney Health Services at Dispur Polyclinic and Hospital

In the Nephrology Department at Dispur Hospital, we provide the following services:

– Kidney Function Tests, routine (KFT)

– 24×7 dialysis support

– Acute Kidney Injury

– Chronic Kidney Disease management

– Kidney stone management and follow-up  

– Lifestyle advice for summer care  

– Dietary advice for kidney patients  

– Preventive health camps, summer season

Our goal is to empower you with proactive care and dependable medical care so you can stay ahead of health problems.

Conclusion

Summer means sunshine, longer days, and enlivening vibes; but it has its side effects – especially for your kidney health – if you ignore the basics. If you are completely healthy, or if you are managing an existing condition, knowing how to stay hydrated, replacing electrolytes, and eating a healthy diet, will help ensure your kidneys function normally during the hottest months of the year.

Dehydration can be avoided. Kidney disease can be managed. With good healthy habits you can expect your kidneys to be healthy for life! Just be mindful, be cool, and drink water.

At Dispur Polyclinic & Hospital, we have specialized nephrologists and specialists who are there for you, every step of your journey whether it be an expert opinion, targeted treatment pathway or just advice. Our heart is to see you maintain healthy kidneys, and healthy yourself! 

Your kidneys work so hard for you, so you need to work hard for them!

Call today +91-8822669275 or consult for further information to make better health choices.