Why Drinking Beer Can Cause Lower Back Pain

Have you ever noticed the area around your kidneys feeling sore after a bout of drinking? This area is made up of the back of your abdomen, both sides of your spine, and under your rib cage. The pain can be a dull ache or a sudden sharp and stabbing sort. It can be mild or severe and felt in one or both sides of your body.

Kidney pain can be felt in your upper or lower back or between your lower ribs and your buttocks. You may feel it immediately after having a drink or after you’ve stopped drinking. Those who experience this pain report that it usually gets worse at night.

The Role of Intervertebral Discs

Between each vertebrae in our spine is an intervertebral disc. These discs act as shock absorbers as we move, preventing pain caused by discs rubbing together. The discs also prevent the vertebrae from pressing on the nerves in and around the spinal column. Pressure on these nerves is a common cause of back pain and sciatica.

So drinking alcohol can cause dehydration and reduce the amount of water in your intervertebral discs. This loss of water in your spinal discs can lead to pain from discs rubbing together or from the discs pressing on nerves around your spine. As you might imagine, someone with degenerative disc disease may experience a worsening of their pain symptoms as a result of the dehydration caused by alcohol consumption.

How Alcohol Relates to Lower Back Pain

Alcohol can act as a muscle relaxant in some people but can also cause muscle spasms, which of course can lead to back pain. Alcohol can also cause dehydration of the kidneys and constipation, which are also big contributors to lower back pain.

Dehydration and Its Effects

No matter what you drink, keep in mind that all alcoholic beverages cause dehydration. If you drink heavily, your muscles could be at risk of becoming dehydrated and weak. Think about your kidneys too; they need to filter a lot of water to break down the alcohol. If there isn’t enough water readily available, your kidneys will take it from your muscles.

Other Factors to Consider

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often a topic of concern. It can be debilitating, but it doesn’t have to be a life sentence. What your doctor told you about CKD might have blown your mind, but taking his advice can be a game changer. Here’s a link to the full article:

Some people drink beer to get rid of kidney stones. However, it’s important to understand that drinking large amounts of alcohol can lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate pain and discomfort. If you’re experiencing pain in the area of your kidneys, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Prevention and Relieving Back Pain

To prevent back pain, it’s important to maintain proper hydration and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. You can also relieve back pain by implementing a regular exercise routine, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing stress levels.

Remember, drinking in moderation is key. If you do enjoy a drink, make sure to pair it with plenty of water and stay conscious of your body’s responses. If you continue to experience pain, seek advice from a medical professional to ensure that there isn’t a more serious underlying issue at play.