Recent studies reveal intriguing connections between various health conditions and kidney disease. For instance, a groundbreaking study by CUMC researchers, including Dr. Krzysztof Kiryluk and Dr. Ali Gharavi, has identified a link between gut inflammation and a specific kidney disorder, IgA nephropathy. This disease occurs when IgA antibodies, typically involved in fighting infections, accumulate in the kidneys’ filtering units, causing damage.
In a different context, many people wonder if their back pain could be kidney-related. Harvard Health clarifies that while typical low back pain manifests as a steady ache, kidney-related pain, such as that caused by a kidney stone lodged in the ureter or a kidney infection like pyelonephritis, often presents as intense, wave-like pain accompanied by other symptoms like fever.
Headaches, another common ailment, can also have connections to kidney health. Sinus headaches, characterized by pain over the forehead, nose, eyes, cheeks, or upper teeth, often worsen when stooping forward. These headaches are typically associated with sinusitis, indicated by symptoms like thick nasal discharge, congestion, and fever.
Moreover, medical research has started to uncover potential links between oral health and kidney function. Preliminary studies suggest a connection between periodontal disease, a severe gum infection, and kidney disease. According to Vanessa Grubbs and other researchers, this emerging field highlights the interconnectivity of different bodily systems.
It’s essential to maintain a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle, as these can protect your kidneys. Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high blood pressure, and diabetes can harm the kidneys and potentially lead to chronic kidney disease. As kidney function naturally declines with age in some individuals, it’s crucial to be aware of these risk factors.
Kidney stones and infections are leading causes of kidney pain. However, injuries and other illnesses can also affect the kidneys, causing pain. Kidney infections, part of the urinary tract infection family, can affect one or both kidneys.
Lastly, a study led by Yale shows that marathon running can lead to short-term kidney damage. This study, published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, is a follow-up to earlier research indicating that the physical strain of running a marathon (26.2 miles) can impact kidney health.
Surprising Link Found between Kidney Disease and Gut Inflammation
Is my kidney causing my back pain?
Headache: When to worry, what to do
Investigating a Link Between Oral Health and Kidney Function
Weak kidneys? Pay attention but don’t worry excessively
Kidney Pain/Chronic Kidney Pain | University of Utah Health
Marathon Running and Kidney Damage: What Runners Should Know
