Diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease, also called diabetic nephropathy, is serious damage to the kidneys caused by long-standing diabetes. High blood sugar levels can harm blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste from the blood. Over time, this may lead to kidney failure if not managed well.

Causes:The main cause is persistently high blood sugar, which damages the kidney’s filtering units. High blood pressure is another major risk factor. Smoking, obesity, genetic predisposition, and not following a healthy lifestyle also increase your risk.

Symptoms:Early diabetic kidney disease usually does not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease advances, you may notice:

·        Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands

·        Fatigue and weakness

·        Foamy urine (from protein loss)

·        Poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting

·        Difficulty concentrating and itchy, dry skinSymptoms often become noticeable only in later stages.

Diagnosis:Doctors use urine tests to check for protein (albumin) leakage, an early sign of kidney damage. Blood tests assess how well your kidneys filter waste (eGFR). These tests are recommended yearly for people with diabetes.

Treatment Options:

·        Rigorous control of blood sugar and blood pressure, often using medications like ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers

·        SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists may protect the kidneys and control diabetes

·        Healthy lifestyle: stop smoking, eat a kidney-friendly diet, exercise, and maintain a healthy weight

·        In advanced cases, dialysis or kidney transplant may be needed.

Early detection and proper management can slow or prevent progression to kidney failure. Regular checkups are vital for anyone with diabetes.