During the arrival of the monsoon season, people naturally tend to consume less water because the cooler weather reduces thirst, making many believe that dehydration is only a summer problem. However, it is important to understand that dehydration can also have a negative impact on the kidneys.
Humidity, fluid loss through sweating, as well as illnesses such as diarrhoea and viral infections, are some of the factors that can cause dehydration during the monsoon. "Dehydration during the monsoon season usually goes unnoticed and affects the kidneys only when it starts impacting an individual's health," says Dr Alok Kumar Pandey, Associate Director, Nephrology & Renal Transplant, Regency Health, Lucknow.
Why is dehydration common during the monsoon
Although temperatures are lower, humidity levels remain high during the monsoon. The body continues to lose fluids through sweat, but because sweat evaporates more slowly, people often don't realise how much water they are losing.
At the same time, many people naturally reduce their water intake because they don't feel as thirsty as they do during summer.
"Many people assume the risk of dehydration disappears with the arrival of the monsoon. In reality, high humidity, reduced water intake and seasonal illnesses continue to increase fluid loss, often without people noticing it," explains Dr Alok Kumar Pandey.
Seasonal illnesses such as diarrhoea, vomiting and viral infections can further accelerate fluid and electrolyte loss, increasing the risk of dehydration if these fluids are not replaced promptly.
How dehydration affects your kidneys
The kidneys rely on a steady blood supply to remove waste products and maintain the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. When dehydration reduces blood volume, the body prioritises blood flow to vital organs such as the brain and heart, temporarily reducing circulation to the kidneys.
"Reduced blood flow to the kidneys can lead to pre-renal acute kidney injury, particularly in older adults, people with diabetes, existing kidney disease or those recovering from infections," says Dr Pandey.
He also points out that concentrated urine caused by dehydration may increase the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections, both of which are commonly seen during the monsoon months.
Who is most at risk?
While dehydration can affect anyone, some people are more prone to it than others.
According to Dr Pandey, those at greater risk include:
- Older adults
- People with diabetes or chronic kidney disease
- Children
- Outdoor workers
- Athletes
- Commuters
- People suffering from fever, diarrhoea or vomiting
- People who consume large amounts of tea, coffee or sugary drinks instead of water
Office-goers, too, can become dehydrated without realising it if they consume other beverages instead of water.
Tips to stay hydrated during the monsoon
It is advisable to maintain a regular intake of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
According to Dr Pandey, you should consume fluids that replenish both water and electrolytes, such as:
- Water
- Buttermilk (chaas)
- Lemon water with a pinch of salt
- Tender coconut water
He also suggests checking the colour of your urine, as pale yellow urine generally indicates proper hydration.
Don't ignore dehydration just because it's raining
Although the monsoon feels cooler than summer, you should not take your water intake lightly. Dehydration can develop silently, and its effects on the kidneys may go unnoticed for a long time. It is one of the major causes of stress on the kidneys, often beginning long before symptoms appear. As Dr Alok Kumar Pandey highlights, one of the simplest ways to protect your kidneys during the monsoon is to maintain adequate hydration.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice.
Also read: School reopening during monsoon: Why children fall sick more often and how parents can protect them
