Explained: How chronic kidney disease quietly crossed the age barrier among patients

New Delhi: When most people think about kidney disease, they picture an elderly person on dialysis or someone who has lived with diabetes or high blood pressure for decades. But over the last few years, doctors have been seeing a troubling shift—chronic kidney disease (CKD) is quietly appearing in people in their 30s and even younger. Patients must remember that the kidneys are not just “filters.” They regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, remove toxins, and even influence bone and heart health. When they are under strain, the body gives very subtle warnings, and by the time symptoms appear, significant damage may already be done. That is why awareness—especially among younger adults—is critical.

Dr. Ratan Jha, Clinical Director & Senior Consultant, Nephrologist & Transplant Physician, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, explained how the risk of kidney diseases is at an all-time high among younger adults. Once a concern among older adults, it now affects relatively younger people as well.

Why Are Younger Adults at Risk?

There are a few key drivers behind this shift:

Dietary habits: The modern urban diet is loaded with processed foods, excess salt, and high sugar intake. Frequent consumption of packaged snacks, energy drinks, and fast food places an ongoing burden on the kidneys. Salt retention leads to high blood pressure, while excess protein or sugar raises the risk of kidney injury.

Dehydration: Many 30-somethings, especially working professionals, admit to drinking very little water throughout the day. Long hours, high caffeine intake, and alcohol on weekends worsen the problem. Chronic dehydration makes urine more concentrated, increasing the risk of kidney stones and infections, both of which can damage kidney tissue if repeated.

Diabetes and prediabetes: India is now called the “diabetes capital of the world,” and what is alarming is the age at which it is striking. Type 2 diabetes, once a middle-aged disease, is now being diagnosed in people in their 20s and 30s. High blood sugar damages the fine blood vessels in the kidneys, a process that often begins silently years before a diagnosis of CKD.

Excess use of painkillers: Unmonitored use of pain medicines and supplements can place extra strain on the kidneys. Many painkillers, fitness supplements, and even certain herbal products are cleared through the kidneys, and regular intake without medical advice may gradually damage them.

The Silent Nature of Kidney Disease

One of the most difficult aspects of CKD is that it rarely announces itself early. Fatigue, swelling of the ankles, or changes in urine output usually appear only after considerable damage. That is why routine health checks are vital for people at risk—even if they feel healthy. Simple tests like serum creatinine, urine analysis, and an ultrasound can detect early changes. In those with diabetes or high blood pressure, kidney function tests should be part of annual check-ups.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Kidneys?

Stay hydrated: A general guideline is 2–2.5 litres of water a day, adjusted for climate and activity level. Soft drinks and energy beverages do not replace plain water.

Watch your diet: Cut down on processed foods and salt, and eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains with moderate protein to protect your kidneys.

Monitor your blood sugar: Keep sugar and blood pressure under control. Regular monitoring, even in your 30s, is crucial if you have a family history of diabetes or hypertension. Lifestyle measures—exercise, stress management, and healthy weight—go a long way.

Be cautious with medications: Do not take over-the-counter painkillers for long durations without medical supervision. The same applies to gym supplements or herbal products. Always check with your doctor about potential kidney side effects.

When to Seek Medical Help

Swelling in the feet, frothy urine, less urine, or constant fatigue can be early signs of kidney trouble and should not be ignored. Even in the absence of symptoms, those with risk factors—such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or a strong family history—should undergo routine screening.

The idea that kidney disease belongs only to the elderly is outdated. Today, lifestyle habits, environmental strain, and the growing burden of diabetes are pushing CKD into the lives of younger adults. The good news is that early detection and preventive care can slow or even halt its progression. Protecting your kidneys in your 30s is one of the best investments you can make for your health in the decades ahead.

Reference Link

https://www.tv9english.com/lifestyle/explained-how-chronic-kidney-disease-quietly-crossed-the-age-barrier-among-patients-article-10872845.html