2023-11-16 16:15:46
What is Diabetic Nephropathy?
The kidneys are vital organs in our body that are responsible for excreting waste, regulating water balance and blood pressure, and producing certain hormones.
A common complication of diabetes is this diabetic nephropathy, also known as diabetic kidney disease. Over time, the high blood sugar level damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys, which in turn disrupts kidney function and in the worst case a chronic kidney failure results. In this case, the kidneys can no longer filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. People with diabetes often also have high blood pressure. This can put additional strain on the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney damage.
Diabetic nephropathy usually develops over years or even decades, without any noticeable symptoms initially appearing. However, in later stages, signs such as increased blood pressure, swelling (especially in the legs and face), increased protein excretion in the urine and a reduced kidney function appear. The condition is a leading cause of kidney failure and can lead to serious complications, including the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Aside from that: The high blood sugar levels of diabetes can also lead to changes in the urine, such as increased glucose levels. This creates a favorable environment for bacteria to grow and increases the risk of Urinary tract infections. In addition, diabetes can impair blood flow to the kidneys, which can lead to a reduced excretion of waste products and an increased concentration of certain substances in the urine. This can reduce the risk of kidney stones increase.
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Prevent kidney damage in diabetes
People with diabetes should therefore take measures to protect their kidneys. The most important include:
1. Check blood sugar levels: Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial to preventing or delaying kidney damage. Regular blood sugar checks, adherence to the treatment plan and, if necessary, adjustment of medication are important.
2. Monitor Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can put additional strain on the kidneys. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and take steps to keep it at a healthy level when necessary. This may include a combination of medication, healthy diet, physical activity, and stress management.
3. Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help protect kidney function. On the other hand, reduce your consumption of high-salt and processed foods as well as saturated fatty acids.
4. Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is important to support kidney function. Drink enough water, but also be careful not to consume excessive amounts of fluids so as not to put strain on the kidneys.
5. Regular medical examinations: Have your kidney function checked regularly, including urine and blood tests, to detect possible damage early. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best monitoring plan for your individual needs.
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Other health consequences of diabetes
But it’s not just our kidneys that the disease can damage, uncontrolled diabetes can also lead to a number of other health problems. Including:
Cardiovascular diseases, eye diseases, nerve damage, foot problems, skin infections
In the worst case, these complications can even be life-threatening. In people with diabetes it can occur sudden drop in blood sugar levels come, which causes low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This condition can be accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, weakness, fainting and, in severe cases, even loss of consciousness or seizures.
Untreated or poorly controlled diabetes can also lead to life-threatening ketoacidosis come. This occurs when the body begins to break down fat for energy and produce ketones due to a lack of insulin. High levels of ketones in the blood can change the body’s pH and cause severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness.
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