Are You at Risk for Kidney Damage?

How Diabetes Affects More Than Just Blood Glucose

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 1 in 10 Americans have diabetes — that’s over 38 million.*

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose, or blood sugar. While managing diabetes is crucial for overall health, it’s equally important to understand how this condition can impact other organs, including your kidneys. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication of diabetes and understanding the connection can help you take proactive steps.

Understanding kidney function

Your kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste and excess fluids from your blood. They also help regulate blood pressure, produce hormones and maintain a balance of electrolytes throughout the body. When left unmanaged, high glucose levels can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, which can lead to reduced kidney function or total failure.

What is diabetic nephropathy?

Diabetes can cause diabetic nephropathy, a type of kidney disease that affects the kidney’s ability to filter waste. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can damage the tiny filtering units in your kidneys, resulting in protein leakage into the urine. Nephropathy is a complication that can lead to both kidney disease and failure.

Recognizing signs and symptoms

Early signs of kidney damage may not be noticeable, which is why regular screening is crucial. Speak to your doctor if you notice the following:

• Swelling in the hands, feet or face
• Fatigue and weakness
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Foamy urine
• High blood pressure

Help protect your kidneys

Effective diabetes management can significantly reduce the risk of developing kidney disease. Here are some steps you can take:

• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly and keep them within the target range.
• Follow a dietary plan that consists of vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains while limiting sugary foods and excess carbohydrates.
• Control blood pressure with a low-sodium diet and regular exercise.
• Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider for blood and urine tests can help detect early signs of kidney damage and promote timely intervention.
• Learn treatment options that are available to you if you are diagnosed with kidney disease. Treatment paths may look different to meet individual needs.

Diabetes and kidney health are closely intertwined. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to manage your diabetes, you can help protect your kidneys from damage.