Amidst the ever-growing popularity of coffee, the question of can I drink coffee with a kidney infectionbecomes one of ever-increasing importance. Before suggesting the answer to the question, let us first understand the condition of a kidney infection, what is it and what are the effects of it.
A kidney infection is often caused by a bacterial infection caused in the kidneys, commonly known as pyelonephritis or simply a UTI (urinary tract infection). This infection kind of ‘trickles’ its way up to the kidneys and affects them, eventually causing blockage.
The most common signs and symptoms of this infection are pain and discomfort in the abdominal area, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting, frequent urination, and cloudy urine. Depending on the severity of the infection, the symptoms may vary from mild to severe.
Having said that, since kidney infection is caused by a bacterial infection, it is quite logical to assume that it would also be wise to avoid caffeine at least until the treatment has been completed.
Caffeine – which is found in coffee, energy drinks and tea – can have an adverse effect on the body, especially when a person is fighting an infection. It increases the heart rate, which further increases the risk for increased risk of dehydration.
Moreover, caffeine is also a diuretic, which means it encourages you to urinate more often and thus, can decrease the time it takes for an infection to be cured.
For this reason, it is always advised to stay away from drinks such as coffee and tea, regardless of the type of infection you have.
This being said, if the infection is mild, you can drink coffee occasionally, with moderation, and probably in consultation with a physician.
In order to prevent any negative effects, it is recommended to keep your caffeine intake moderate. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the maximum amount of caffeine that can be consumed in a day is 400mg. If consumed in excessive amounts, it can lead to complications such as insomnia, anxiety, and even heart palpitations.
Hence, when it comes to drinking coffee with a kidney infection, it is definitely advisable to consume it in moderation, and to consult with a physician first.
Effects of Caffeine on Kidney Health
Caffeine is known to have a negative effect on kidney health and can increase the risk of kidney stones. A study published in the Journal of Nephrology showed that drinking caffeinated beverages was associated with an increased risk of developing kidney stones.
Furthermore, caffeine can also increase blood pressure and trigger chronic kidney diseases. It can also worsen the symptoms of existing kidney diseases. Therefore, it is essential to watch the amount of coffee you consume if you have a kidney infection.
Treatment
Kidney infection is treated with antibiotics, which can be prescribed by a doctor once the infection is properly diagnosed. It is recommended to take the medication as prescribed and avoid any food or beverages which can worsen the symptoms.
It is important to note that it is not always necessary for a doctor to prescribe antibiotics for a mild infection. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding caffeine, and taking ibuprofen can help reduce the pain and the symptoms of the infection.
Additionally, it is also important to avoid any sugary beverages, including coffee, and alcohol, as these can worsen the symptoms. When recovering from a kidney infection, it is important to be mindful of what you eat and drink, and to make sure that you are taking all the necessary precautions.
Limiting Factors
The severity of the infection is one of the most important factors that can decide if it is safe to drink coffee. A mild infection may be manageable, but severe infections should be treated with antibiotics and limiting the intake of caffeine.
Furthermore, it is essential to take note of your diet on a daily basis and make sure that you are not exceeding the recommended limits of caffeine. Too much caffeine can interfere with the medication and make it difficult to cure the infection.
It is also important to note that the reaction of the body to medication and caffeine may vary from one person to another. Some people may have more adverse effects than others and can suffer more harm due to excessive caffeine intake.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be said that it is always advisable to talk to your doctor and discuss any changes to your habits and diet that might help to speed up recovery. This applies to caffeine as well, and if you are looking to drink coffee while dealing with a kidney infection, make sure that it is done in moderation.
