What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which your body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that helps turn food into energy. Diabetes can lead to a number of serious health complications, including kidney damage. The kidneys play an important role in filtering waste and excess water from the body, so it is important to take steps to protect them if you have diabetes.
Why is it Important to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy?
Kidney damage is a common complication of diabetes, and it can lead to serious health problems like kidney failure. This can lead to the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant. Keeping your kidneys healthy is important to prevent these complications, and it is also important to monitor your kidney function regularly if you have diabetes.
How to Monitor Your Kidney Function
Your doctor can use a blood test to measure the level of creatinine in your blood, which is a waste product that is filtered by the kidneys. If the level of creatinine is too high, it can indicate that your kidneys are not functioning properly. It is important to keep track of your creatinine levels and discuss any changes or concerns with your doctor.
Tips to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy
There are several things you can do to help keep your kidneys healthy if you have diabetes. These include:
1. Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels
It is important to keep your blood sugar levels within the recommended range. This can help reduce the risk of damage to your kidneys and other organs. Your doctor can recommend the best way to manage your blood sugar levels.
2. Control Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can contribute to kidney damage, so it is important to keep your blood pressure in check. You can do this by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and taking any medications prescribed by your doctor.
3. Avoid Unnecessary Medications
Some medications can be harmful to your kidneys, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications. Your doctor can help you determine which medications are safe to take and which ones you should avoid.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your kidneys healthy and reduce the risk of kidney damage. It is important to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, but you can also drink other healthy fluids like herbal teas or fresh fruit and vegetable juices.
5. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can help improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing diabetes-related complications. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, and make sure to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Conclusion
If you have diabetes, it is important to take steps to keep your kidneys healthy. This includes managing your blood sugar levels, controlling your blood pressure, avoiding unnecessary medications, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. Talk to your doctor about the best way to protect your kidneys and monitor your kidney function.