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Diabetic Nephropathy


About this topic


Diabetes is an illness that makes your blood sugar too high. If your blood sugar is not under control, you may have problems like kidney disease. Kidney damage in diabetics is called diabetic nephropathy. ‚  
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs in the back of your belly. They sit just above your waist. They filter waste products from your blood. Sometimes, diabetes harms the kidneys. Then, they do not get rid of waste products and extra fluids the right way. ‚  
There is no cure for this illness. Diabetic nephropathy may be prevented by taking care of your blood sugar levels. Once you have diabetic nephropathy, it will get worse over time. The goal of care is to slow down the illness. Doctors work to do this through drugs and lifestyle changes. Without care, kidney failure may happen. ‚  

What are the causes?


Blood sugar that is not well controlled may make your kidneys work harder to get rid of waste products. This can harm your kidneys. ‚  

What can make this more likely to happen?


You are more likely to have this problem if your diabetes is not under control. If you started with type 1 diabetes before you were 20 years old, you are at a higher risk. Having high blood pressure and smoking also raise your risk for having this problem. Being heavy and not exercising may also raise your risk. So does eyesight or nerve problems. African-Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians may have more chance for kidney damage. Having a family history of diabetes may raise your risk for this problem. ‚  

What are the main signs?


There may be no signs of kidney damage until the problem gets more severe. Some signs are: ‚  
  • Swollen feet and ankles
  • Feeling tired and weak
  • Not feeling hungry, upset stomach and throwing up
  • Headache
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Not able to focus, confused

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may order tests to check how well your kidneys are working. The doctor will check for protein in your urine. Sometimes, a tissue sample of the kidney will help make sure of the diagnosis. ‚  

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


The doctor will work to get your blood sugar in control. If you have high blood pressure your doctor will work with you on ways to keep it normal. This might include changes to your diet or drugs. You may also have to make changes to how you are living. ‚  
If this problem is very bad, you may need kidney dialysis. This means your kidneys are not working well. You may also need to have surgery to give you a new kidney. ‚  

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Control blood sugar
  • Lower high blood pressure

What changes to diet are needed?


Talk with your doctor or a dietitian about a diet plan that is best for you. You may need a special diet. Your doctor may want you to limit your fat, protein, or salt. Learn what foods are good for you to eat. ‚  

What problems could happen?


  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Eyesight problems
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Kidney failure

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


  • Keep your blood sugar in good control.
  • Have your blood pressure checked often.
  • Keep your cholesterol levels in a healthy range.
  • If you are heavy, lose weight.
  • If you smoke, stop smoking.
  • Talk to your doctor about an exercise program that is right for you.

Where can I learn more?


American Diabetes Association ‚  
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/kidney-disease-nephropathy.html ‚  
Better Health Channel ‚  
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Diabetes_and_kidney_failure ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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