Kidney disease is often linked to diabetes, but many people without diabetes can also develop kidney problems. In fact, research shows that nearly 30 to 40 percent of chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases occur in people who do not have diabetes.
So what causes kidney disease in these individuals? The answer involves a mix of health conditions, lifestyle factors, and sometimes even genetics.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the biggest causes of kidney disease in non-diabetics.
The kidneys have many tiny blood vessels that help filter waste from the blood. When blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on these vessels and can damage them over time.
This makes it harder for the kidneys to work properly. According to the National Kidney Foundation, high blood pressure is the second leading cause of kidney failure in the United States, right behind diabetes.
Another major cause is glomerulonephritis, which is an inflammation of the tiny filters in the kidneys called glomeruli. This condition can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or even unknown reasons.
In some cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the kidneys. This can lead to swelling, blood in the urine, and gradual loss of kidney function. Research in the journal *Kidney International* shows that glomerulonephritis is a leading cause of kidney failure in younger people.
Certain medications can also harm the kidneys if used for a long time or in high doses. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen, known as NSAIDs, are among the most common drugs linked to kidney damage.
These medicines can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, especially when taken regularly. Some antibiotics and heartburn medications have also been linked to kidney problems in rare cases.
Genetics can play a role, too. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited condition that causes fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys, eventually reducing their ability to function. People with a family history of kidney disease may have a higher risk even if they don’t have diabetes or other known causes.
Lifestyle choices matter as well. Smoking, a high-salt diet, being overweight, and not drinking enough water can all contribute to poor kidney health. These factors can increase blood pressure or cause inflammation, which in turn can harm the kidneys over time.
A 2020 study in The Lancet showed that people with unhealthy lifestyles were more likely to develop kidney disease, regardless of their blood sugar levels.
Heart disease is also closely connected to kidney disease. The two organs work together, and when the heart isn’t pumping properly, it can affect blood flow to the kidneys. Similarly, problems with the kidneys can increase the risk of heart issues. This link is often called the “cardiorenal syndrome” and is an active area of research.
Infections and blockages in the urinary tract can also lead to kidney damage if not treated quickly. For example, repeated kidney infections or kidney stones that block the flow of urine can cause long-term harm.
In short, diabetes is not the only reason people get kidney disease. High blood pressure, inflammation, medications, genetics, and lifestyle all play a role. Knowing these risks can help people take steps to protect their kidney health. That includes regular checkups, managing blood pressure, avoiding unnecessary medications, and staying active and hydrated.
If you care about kidney health, please read studies about how to protect your kidneys from diabetes, and drinking coffee could help reduce risk of kidney injury.
For more information about kidney health, please see recent studies about foods that may prevent recurrence of kidney stones, and eating nuts linked to lower risk of chronic kidney disease and death.
