CATHEGORY: health - public health
Winter is time of viral infections, like for example covid which "celebrates" in 2025 the fifth anniversary since the pandemic started in 2020.
It might sound surprising to many as covid is usually thought of as a bad cold. Nevertheless a reduced renal function might be considered among the outcome of a covid driven infection or of long covid, defined as a chronic condition that occurs after SARS-CoV-2 infection and is present for at least 3 months. Long COVID includes a wide range of symptoms or conditions that may improve, worsen, or be ongoing.
Reduced renal function might drive for example to
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI):
COVID-19 has been associated with an increased risk of acute kidney injury (AKI), especially in severe cases. This can occur due to:
• Severe inflammation: The immune response to the virus can cause widespread inflammation, which can damage the kidneys.
• Low blood oxygen levels: Severe COVID-19 can lead to hypoxia (low oxygen levels in the blood), which can impair kidney function.
• Viral infection of kidney cells: While it’s still being researched, SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, may directly infect kidney cells, contributing to kidney dysfunction.
• Dehydration: Severe symptoms like fever, vomiting, and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which increases the risk of kidney damage.
2. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD):
For individuals who already have chronic kidney disease (CKD), COVID-19 can worsen kidney function. Infection-related inflammation, combined with the body’s inability to cope with stress, can lead to further decline in kidney health. Studies have shown that people with CKD who contract COVID-19 are more likely to experience severe complications.
3. Long-Term Kidney Damage:
In some cases, patients who recover from severe COVID-19 may experience long-term kidney damage, even after the acute infection has resolved. This could manifest as:
• Persistent kidney dysfunction (increased creatinine levels or protein in the urine)
• Increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease later on
• Potential long-term damage to blood vessels in the kidneys, which affects their ability to filter waste
The impact of covid or long covid on kidney need to be taken seriously.
In facts the kidneys are essential organs that perform several important functions in the body. Primarily, they filter waste products and excess substances (like water, salts, and toxins) from the blood to form urine. This helps maintain the body’s balance of fluids, electrolytes, and pH levels.
In addition to filtering waste, kidneys also help regulate blood pressure by controlling the amount of sodium and water in the body. They produce hormones that play a role in red blood cell production and calcium regulation. Overall, the kidneys are crucial for maintaining homeostasis, which is the body’s internal balance.
In general, supporting kidney health involves a combination of lifestyle habits and regular monitoring. The ways to keep kidneys healthy include:
Hydration, a balanced diet, blood pressure within normal ranges, blood sugar under control, regular exercise, limited nuse of ibuprofen, limited alcohol and regular monitoring
By adopting these habits, you can help support your kidneys and reduce the risk of kidney disease.
If you’ve had COVID-19 and suspect it may have affected your kidneys, it’s important to take action promptly. COVID-19 can cause kidney problems, even in people who have recovered from the initial infection, so it’s wise to monitor for symptoms and seek medical advice. Here are the steps you can take:
1. Watch for Symptoms of Kidney Issues:
Look for signs that might indicate kidney damage:
• Changes in Urination: Increased or decreased frequency of urination, dark-colored urine, or foamy urine (which can indicate protein).
• Swelling: Fluid retention leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or around the eyes.
• Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or weakness.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing can sometimes be related to kidney problems, especially in severe cases.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea or vomiting without another clear cause.
• Back Pain: Pain near the lower back or flanks could suggest kidney issues.
2. Contact Your Healthcare Provider:
• Schedule an Appointment: If you notice any symptoms that concern you, reach out to your doctor. They can assess whether your symptoms are related to kidney function.
• Discuss COVID-19 History: Let your doctor know about your recent COVID-19 infection, as this can help them understand potential links to kidney problems.
• Get Referrals for Specialist Care: If necessary, your doctor might refer you to a nephrologist (kidney specialist) for more targeted care.
3. Get Kidney Function Tests:
Your doctor may order specific tests to evaluate your kidney function:
• Blood Tests:
• Serum Creatinine: Elevated creatinine levels can indicate kidney damage.
• Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): This measures how well your kidneys are filtering blood.
• Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): This tests the levels of waste in your blood.
• Urine Tests:
• Urinalysis: Can detect abnormalities like blood or protein in your urine, which may indicate kidney damage.
• Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR): Elevated protein levels, particularly albumin, in your urine are a sign of kidney injury.
• Electrolyte Levels: Checking for imbalances in sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate, which can suggest kidney dysfunction.
4. Monitor Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure can be a consequence of kidney problems, and it can also worsen kidney damage. Regularly check your blood pressure, especially if you had high blood pressure before or during your COVID-19 infection. Keep it within a healthy range (around 120/80 mmHg). Your doctor can guide you on managing it if needed.
5. Hydration and Diet:
If you’re at risk of kidney issues, staying hydrated and eating a kidney-friendly diet can support your recovery. Limit salt intake, avoid excessive protein, and focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid Over-the-Counter Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can harm the kidneys, especially if kidney function is already impaired. Discuss any medications with your healthcare provider.
6. Consider a Follow-Up for Long COVID:
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms after recovering from COVID-19 (a condition known as Long COVID), including possible kidney issues, ask your doctor about follow-up care and testing. Kidney issues can sometimes emerge or worsen in the weeks following COVID-19.
7. Stay on Top of Pre-existing Conditions:
• Diabetes and Hypertension: Both can worsen kidney function, so it’s important to manage these conditions carefully. Keep your blood sugar and blood pressure well-controlled.
• Medication Review: If you’re taking medications to manage existing conditions, discuss any changes with your healthcare provider.
8. Follow Up with Imaging (if recommended):
In some cases, imaging tests such as a kidney ultrasound or CT scan may be used to check for structural issues in the kidneys. These tests can help determine whether the kidneys have been affected by COVID-19, particularly in more severe cases.
9. Long-Term Monitoring:
Even if you don’t have noticeable symptoms now, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of kidney function (e.g., periodic blood and urine tests) for several months after recovering from COVID-19, particularly if you had a severe infection or other risk factors.
Key Takeaway:
If you’ve had COVID-19 and suspect kidney involvement, it’s crucial to seek medical advice early. Kidney issues can sometimes develop after viral infections, and early detection helps prevent further complications. Keeping track of symptoms, getting the necessary tests, and following your healthcare provider’s guidance will be key steps in managing your kidney health post-COVID.
References:
1. Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology (13th Edition) by Arthur C. Guyton and John E. Hall – A comprehensive source for understanding kidney function and physiology.
2. Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach (7th Edition) by Dee Unglaub Silverthorn – Another excellent resource that covers the anatomy and function of the kidneys in detail.
3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Their website offers accessible, scientifically-backed information on kidney health and functions. www.niddk.nih.gov
National Kidney Foundation (NKF): This organization provides in-depth resources on kidney health, prevention, and disease management. www.kidney.org
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC has extensive information on chronic kidney disease, its prevention, and tips for maintaining kidney health. www.cdc.gov/kidneydisease
3. American Kidney Fund (AKF): Offers educational content on how to protect your kidneys and maintain overall kidney health. www.kidneyfund.org Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board