Diabetes is a chronic health condition in which the body struggles to turn food into energy. There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is a type of autoimmune disorder, in which your immune system mistakenly targets and eradicates the pancreatic cells responsible for insulin production. Insulin is a crucial hormone that assists your body in utilizing glucose as a source of energy.
On the other hand, Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, or being physically inactive. In Type 2 diabetes, the body becomes insensitive to insulin to the point where extra insulin and/or medication is needed to manage blood sugar.
Diabetes can damage your kidneys over time. This is called diabetic kidney disease, which is a progressive condition, meaning that it gets worse over time. If it is not treated, it can lead to kidney failure. If you or a loved one has diabetes, keep reading to find out more about managing risks and preventing serious kidney complications due to diabetes.
Risk Factors for Diabetic Kidney Disease
The main risk factors for diabetic kidney disease are:
- Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
- High blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Family history of diabetic kidney disease
- Being overweight or obese
- Being African American, Hispanic, or Native American
- Being over the age of 45
How to Prevent Diabetic Kidney Disease
There is no cure for diabetic kidney disease, but there are things you can do to prevent or delay it. These include:
Controlling Your Blood Sugar
Your blood sugar goal will be different depending on your individual circumstances. Talk to your doctor about what your blood sugar goal should be.
Controlling Your Blood Pressure
Your blood pressure goal should be below 140/90 mmHg.
Taking Care of Your Heart Health
This includes controlling your cholesterol levels and getting regular exercise.
Losing Weight
If you are overweight or obese, shedding even a few pounds can help to protect your kidneys.
Not Smoking
Smoking can damage your kidneys and quitting it can help improve your overall health.
Eating a Healthy Diet
For those with diabetes, a healthy diet includes whole grains, vegetables, and low-sugar fruit. The diet should also include limited amounts of sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol.
Managing Diabetic Kidney Disease
If you have diabetic kidney disease, it is important to work with your doctor to manage your condition. This may include the following:
Taking Medications
Medications for diabetic kidney disease can help to control your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
There are also medications that can slow the progression of diabetic kidney disease.
Following a Healthy Diet
The same diet that can prevent diabetes also helps manage diabetes. Focus on including whole grains, low-sugar fruit and vegetables. Again, limit sodium, cholesterol, and saturated fat.
Attending Regular Checkups
Regular checkups are important to monitor your kidney function and make sure that your treatment plan is working.
Complications of Diabetic Kidney Disease
If diabetic kidney disease is not treated, it can lead to kidney failure, a serious condition that requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Other complications of diabetic kidney disease include:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Eye problems
- Nerve damage
- High blood pressure
- Infections
When to Visit Your Nephrologist
If you have diabetes, you are at an increased risk of developing kidney disease. Therefore, it is important to see a nephrologist regularly to monitor your kidney function.
You should see a trusted kidney doctor near you if you have any of the following:
- Swelling in your feet, ankles, or legs
- Fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Changes in your urination habits
- Family history of kidney disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Blood in your urine
Are you also taking medications that can damage your kidneys, such as certain antibiotics or pain relievers? If so, you should see a nephrologist regularly to monitor your kidney function.
In addition to the above, it is a good idea to get medical assistance if you have any concerns about your diabetes and kidney health.
Your nephrologist can help you manage your diabetes and kidney disease and prevent complications.
The Best Nephrologist in Marlborough, MA
Diabetic kidney disease is a serious condition, but it can be prevented or delayed with early diagnosis and treatment. If you have diabetes, it is important to work with your doctor to manage your condition and prevent diabetic kidney disease. By following these tips, you can help improve your overall health as well as your kidney health.
Are you in search of the best nephrologist in Marlborough, MA? If so, you can put your trust in the skilled and compassionate healthcare providers at Commonwealth Nephrology Associates. We will make sure your health is in good hands when you are with us. You may reach our helpful staff at (617) 739-2100 so we can assist you. You can also book a visit to one of our convenient offices using our secure appointment request form.
We look forward to helping you manage risks and prevent kidney complications!
