Can Diabetes Cause Kidney Damage?

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition in which the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin, or cannot use it effectively. This leads to an increased level of sugar in the bloodstream. Diabetes can cause a range of health issues, including kidney damage. In this article, we’ll take a look at how diabetes can lead to kidney damage and the steps you can take to prevent it.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to process and use glucose, a type of sugar. Normally, the body produces a hormone called insulin, which helps to convert glucose into energy. Without insulin, the glucose remains in the bloodstream and can lead to a range of health issues, including kidney damage.

How Does Diabetes Cause Kidney Damage?

Diabetes can cause kidney damage in two ways. First, when the body has too much glucose in the bloodstream, this can damage the delicate blood vessels that filter waste from the bloodstream and send it to the kidneys. As a result, the blood vessels may become scarred and unable to remove waste from the body, leading to a build-up of toxins in the bloodstream. This can damage the kidneys and other organs.

Second, when there is too much glucose in the bloodstream, it can cause high blood pressure. This extra pressure can damage the kidneys and other organs. It can also cause chronic inflammation in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney damage.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Damage?

The symptoms of kidney damage caused by diabetes vary depending on the severity of the damage. In early stages, you may experience no symptoms at all. However, as the damage progresses, you may experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Itching
• Swollen feet and ankles
• Frequent urination
• Blood in the urine
• Muscle cramps
• Dark-colored urine

How Can You Prevent Kidney Damage?

The best way to prevent kidney damage from diabetes is to keep your blood sugar and blood pressure levels under control. This means eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and taking any prescribed medications. It’s also important to monitor your blood sugar and blood pressure levels regularly, and to see your doctor for regular check-ups.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the symptoms of kidney damage, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can run tests to determine the extent of the damage and recommend treatments. If the damage is severe, your doctor may refer you to a specialist for further treatment.

Conclusion

Diabetes can cause kidney damage, but with proper management and treatment, it can be prevented. If you have diabetes, it’s important to keep your blood sugar and blood pressure levels under control to prevent kidney damage. If you experience any symptoms of kidney damage, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment.