Does Alcoholism Cause Kidney Failure?
Alcoholism, as a chronic and highly progressive disease, can have a significant negative impact on countless aspects of an individual’s life. Not only in their physical health but also in the health of their relationships and their overall well-being. One of the common questions we often hear at Capo Canyon is “Does alcoholism cause kidney failure?” This is a complex question that needs an answer, so we’re going to dig into the intricate relationship between alcoholism and kidney failure.
What is Alcoholism?
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is more commonly known simply as alcoholism. Alcoholism is a chronic, relapsing disease that is characterized by the inability to stop or control the amount of alcohol they consume, even when faced with significant, negative consequences in their lives. Contrary to what many people believe, alcoholism isn’t just a lack of willpower, it’s a serious medical condition that causes dramatic changes to the individual’s behavior and brain structure. Without treatment, it can be devastating to an individual’s long-term health.
The Connection Between Alcoholism and Kidney Failure
The kidneys are vital organs and are responsible for filtering waste, regulating electrolytes, and maintaining the fluid balance of the body. This means that any damage to the kidneys can have significant effects on the body and general health.
Prolonged excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to kidney damage, and in some severe cases, even kidney failure. Although alcohol primarily affects the liver, the negative impacts can spread far beyond there to all other systems of the body, including the renal system. This becomes more likely as the liver becomes more and more damaged, and can’t operate as it once did.
How Does Alcoholism Lead to Kidney Failure?
No matter how delicious the drink, alcohol is still considered a toxin. This means it can easily damage bodily organs and systems like any other poison would. When it’s consumed in large amounts over long periods, it can even lead to conditions like liver disease and elevated blood pressure, which can indirectly lead to kidney damage. The most significant relationship between alcoholism and kidney failure is mediated by two big factors, alcohol-induced hypertension, and liver disease.
Alcohol-Induced Hypertension
Chronic heavy drinking can cause elevations in blood pressure, which is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. Alcohol often contains high levels of sodium, which causes spikes in blood pressure. It also stimulates the nervous system, making the heart beat faster and making the high blood pressure issue even worse.
Alcohol-Related Liver Disease
The liver is the primary organ responsible for detoxifying the blood and removing alcohol from the system. When it’s overwhelmed by excessive drinking, however, it can begin to sustain damage. This damage can lead to several serious conditions including cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and hepatitis. Advanced liver disease can also damage the kidneys by changing the blood flow, causing hepatorenal syndrome.
Partner With Capo Canyon to Recover from Alcoholism
As you can see, while alcoholism isn’t a direct cause, chronic heavy drinking can lead to conditions that can exacerbate kidney damage, possibly leading to kidney failure. With such a relationship between alcoholism and kidney failure, the importance of treating alcoholism as a serious medical condition and not a social issue becomes more apparent.
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcoholism, don’t hesitate to ask for help. At Capo Canyon, we’re committed to providing the most compassionate and effective care possible to help you regain control of your health, and ultimately, your life. Reach out to Capo Canyon today to speak with a local addiction expert, and begin creating your customized treatment plan.
