Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. If you have diabetic kidney disease, it’s important to control and care for your diabetes and kidneys so you can be your healthiest.
What is diabetes?
• Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce enough insulin or uses insulin effectively, making it difficult to maintain healthy blood sugar (glucose) levels.
• People with diabetes must modify their diet and may need to take medications to control blood sugar levels.
• Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to other health problems besides kidney disease, including eye disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, nerve disease and foot health problems.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes include:
• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Extreme hunger
• Unexplained weight loss
• Presence of ketone bodies in urine
• fatigue
• Irritability
If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact your doctor. Early diagnosis and ongoing treatment are key to managing the condition.
How does diabetes affect the kidneys?
Over time, poor blood sugar control can slowly weaken and damage blood vessels in the kidneys. This condition can lead to kidney disease. As more kidney tissue is damaged, kidney failure may result.
Dialysis or a kidney transplant is needed when the kidneys are unable to filter and remove waste products and excess water from the blood.
How to control diabetes?
You must strictly follow your doctor’s instructions for treating diabetes. Everyone’s health situation is different, and only your doctor or nurse can determine what’s right for you.
Generally speaking, daily measures to control blood sugar should include the following steps:
• Check and record your blood sugar levels
• Take medications prescribed by your doctor
• Make healthy food choices and eat according to your nutrition plan
• Check the condition of your feet regularly
• Check your eyes regularly and practice proper eye care
• Take good care of your mouth and visit your dentist regularly
• Stay active and maintain a healthy weight
If you have questions about diabetic kidney disease, talk to your doctor or nurse.