Depression May Be Slowly Destroying Your Kidneys
New research shows that having asthma or depression could raise your risk of kidney failure as you age. A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society followed nearly 3,100 older adults over 15 years. It revealed that individuals living with asthma or depression were more likely to experience faster kidney function decline, especially when other chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure were present.
Asthma’s Hidden Impact on Kidney Health
Most people think of asthma as a lung condition that causes breathing difficulties. However, the study found that asthma can also increase the risk of kidney problems later in life. This happens because asthma causes chronic inflammation in the body. Over time, this inflammation can damage blood vessels and organs, including the kidneys.
Since kidneys depend on healthy blood flow to filter waste, long-term inflammation from asthma may speed up their decline. Although asthma doesn’t directly cause kidney disease, its indirect effects make it a significant risk factor for kidney health. Therefore, people with asthma should monitor their kidney function more closely as they age.
How Depression Affects Kidney Function
Depression is often seen only as a mental health issue, but the study shows it has serious physical effects too, especially on the kidneys. People with depression experienced faster kidney function decline compared to those without depression.
This is linked to several factors. Depression can cause hormonal imbalances, increased stress, and higher levels of inflammation in the body. Additionally, it may lead to unhealthy habits such as poor diet, smoking, lack of exercise, and skipping medical check-ups. All these behaviours can further damage the kidneys. That’s why depression should be treated not just as a psychological problem but as a medical condition that impacts overall health, including kidney function.
The Risk of Multiple Chronic Illnesses (Multimorbidity)
One of the study’s key findings is that having multiple chronic illnesses, known as multimorbidity, greatly raises the risk of kidney failure. When asthma or depression is combined with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, the damage to the kidneys happens faster.
For example:
- High blood pressure can strain and injure the kidney’s small blood vessels.
- Diabetes causes high blood sugar levels that damage kidney tissues.
- Inflammatory effects from asthma and unhealthy habits linked to depression further accelerate kidney decline.
This means people living with multiple health conditions must regularly screen their kidney function, even if they don’t feel any symptoms yet. Early detection is crucial to preventing severe kidney disease.
Why This Study Matters for Public Health
As the global population grows older, chronic diseases are becoming more common. The new study shows that asthma and depression, conditions many don’t immediately associate with kidney health, play a role in increasing kidney failure risk over time.
This information helps healthcare providers improve preventive care. Doctors can recommend regular kidney tests for patients with asthma, depression, or other chronic illnesses. Personalised treatment plans and lifestyle advice can help reduce long-term risks. Meanwhile, patients should also take proactive steps to safeguard their health.
Conclusion
The study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society provides strong evidence that asthma or depression may increase the risk of kidney failure later in life. The danger is even greater when other chronic illnesses are present, highlighting the serious role of multimorbidity.
By recognising these hidden risks early and taking preventive steps, it’s possible to protect kidney health and promote healthier ageing.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 9 September 2025
- 22:00
