Yes, smoking can contribute to kidney failure. Here’s how:
- Increases Blood Pressure – Smoking raises blood pressure, a major risk factor for kidney disease. High blood pressure damages kidney blood vessels, reducing their ability to filter waste.
- Worsens Diabetes – If you have diabetes, smoking increases the risk of kidney damage by worsening blood sugar control and damaging blood vessels.
- Narrows Blood Vessels – Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys, leading to reduced function and an increased risk of kidney disease.
- Increases Risk of Kidney Cancer – Smokers have a higher risk of developing kidney cancer, which can lead to kidney failure.
- Toxic Build-Up – Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into the body, which the kidneys must filter. Over time, this can strain and damage them.