- Diabetic nephropathy or diabetic kidney disease is a progressive kidney disease that may occur in people who have diabetes.
- It affects both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes people.
- It occurs when long-term high blood glucose levels damage the kidney’s function.
- It progresses slowly and may lead to kidney failure if left untreated.
Symptoms Of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Nephropathy)
- Worsening BP control
- Fatigue
- Protein in the urine
- Swelling of feet, ankles, hands, or eyes
- Increased need to urinate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Reduced need for insulin or diabetes medicine
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Persistent itching
What can Cause Diabetic Kidney Disease (Nephropathy)?
Diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy) is a complication of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Poorly controlled diabetes over time can cause damage to blood vessel clusters in the kidneys leading to kidney damage.
Risk Factors of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Nephropathy)
- Family history of diabetes and kidney disease
- Uncontrolled high blood sugar
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Smoking
- High blood cholesterol
- Being overweight or obese
Diagnosis of Diabetic Kidney Disease
Urinary albumin test: Too much of the protein in urine can indicate poor kidney function
Albumin/creatinine ratio: This test indicates kidney function
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR): This test estimates how quickly the kidneys filter blood (glomerular filtration rate).
Imaging tests: X-rays and ultrasounds assess the kidneys’ structure and size. CT scan and MRI can determine blood circulation within the kidneys.
Kidney biopsy
Treatment Of Diabetic Kidney Disease
Medications
- To Control High Blood Pressure
- To Control High Sugar Levels
- To Control High Cholesterol levels
- To Prevent Kidney Scarring
Dialysis
Kidney Transplantation
Myth Buster On Diabetic Kidney Disease
Myth: Kidney disease in diabetes is rare
Fact: Diabetes is the number 1 cause of kidney disease
Myth: People with diabetes know if they have kidney disease
Fact: Most people with diabetic kidney disease do not have symptoms. Only the late stages of the condition show symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions On Diabetic Kidney Disease
Can diabetic nephropathy be prevented?
The onset and progression of diabetic kidney disease can be delayed by intensive management of diabetes.
How can diabetic nephropathy be detected early?
A regular routine urine tests can help identify the condition early