‘Maa Sabka Dhyan Rakhti Hai’ – But Who Watches Her? Doctors Warn Mothers Are Ignoring Silent Kidney Disease Signs

Mothers often become the emotional and physical backbone of the family. They manage homes, careers, children, and elderly family members while constantly putting their own health last. Doctors now warn that this habit of self-neglect is quietly increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease among women. According to Dr. Tripti Raheja, Director - Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital, kidney health is one of the most overlooked areas in women’s healthcare. “Many women dismiss symptoms such as fatigue, swelling in the feet, frequent urinary infections, changes in urination, or persistent weakness as 'normal tiredness' linked to motherhood, work pressure, or hormonal changes. However, these signs can sometimes indicate underlying kidney problems

that remain unnoticed for years,” she said.Also read: The #1 Diet Mistake Every Indian Makes While Trying To Lose Weight

Why do women face a higher risk of kidney disease?

According to experts, women are biologically and medically more vulnerable to kidney-related complications. Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs), hormonal changes, autoimmune disorders, pregnancy-related complications, diabetes, and hypertension can all increase the long-term risk of kidney damage. According to Dr. Vikram Kalra, Principal Director - Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, untreated or recurrent UTIs can sometimes spread to the kidneys and trigger serious complications. “Due to anatomical differences, women are more prone to bacterial infections of the urinary tract. If these infections are frequent or left untreated, they can spread upwards and affect the kidneys, leading to serious complications,” he said. Pregnancy can also place additional stress on kidney function. Conditions like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and preeclampsia may increase future kidney disease risk, especially if follow-up care is neglected after childbirth. Doctors warn that many women stop prioritising their own health once they become caregivers, allowing silent kidney damage to progress unnoticed.

Symptoms women often ignore

Chronic Kidney Disease is often called a “silent disease” because symptoms may appear only after significant kidney damage has already occurred. According to Dr. Kalra, women should not ignore symptoms such as:

• Swelling in the feet or around the eyes
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Blood in urine
• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Reduced urine output
• Loss of appetite or nausea
• High blood pressure
• Constant body pain or exhaustion

"Many women mistake early warning signs for tiredness or routine weakness,” he said.

Lifestyle habits also affect kidney health

Daily lifestyle patterns may quietly increase kidney strain over time. Many women skip meals, drink insufficient water, delay bathroom breaks, compromise on sleep, and ignore regular medical check-ups due to family responsibilities. Experts warn that uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, hypertension, chronic dehydration, stress, and excessive use of painkillers can gradually damage kidney function. Dr. (Lt. Col) Leena N Sreedhar, Chairman - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospitals, says emotional burnout, anxiety, poor sleep, thyroid disorders, anaemia, and post-pregnancy complications also frequently go unnoticed in mothers. “Women experience significant changes in their physical and hormonal health after giving birth, but often neglect postpartum care once their child becomes the focus. Anemia or thyroid imbalance, pelvic floor weakness or lack of sufficient vitamin sources, anxiety, and postpartum depression are just some conditions that are often overlooked, so mothers keep pushing through pain,” she said.

How can women protect their kidney health?

Doctors say prevention and early screening can significantly reduce the risk of severe kidney disease. Experts recommend:

• Staying well hydrated
• Monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar regularly
• Exercising daily
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Reducing excessive salt intake
• Avoiding self-medication and painkiller overuse
• Undergoing regular urine and kidney function tests

Women above 35, those with diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune disorders, pregnancy complications, kidney stones, or a family history of kidney disease should undergo preventive kidney screening regularly. This Mother's Day, doctors say the most meaningful gift may not be flowers but encouraging mothers to prioritise their own health. Because the woman caring for everyone else deserves care, too.