Watch Out! These Everyday Habits May Be Sneakily Damaging Your Kidneys

2. Don't Overdo It with Pain Relievers

Pain relievers like Tylenol may seem like lifesavers when you're feeling under the weather, but overusing them can lead to kidney trouble. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that excessive painkiller use causes about 5,000 cases of kidney failure in the U.S. each year. But when is it too much? The researchers pointed out that taking pain relievers after fasting is particularly risky. A dose now and then with food for a headache should be fine, though.

Dr. Grant Lipman, a Stanford medical professor, explains that painkillers reduce blood flow to your kidneys. Over time, this puts extra pressure on these vital organs. Dr. Lipman also mentions that one in five marathon runners is at an increased risk of kidney damage due to overusing pain relievers. So, while popping a pill now and then won't hurt, regular use can cause long-term damage—something to keep in mind next time you're reaching for the medicine cabinet.