- How Damage Occurs: Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels (glomeruli) in the kidneys, which are essential for filtering waste from the blood. Over time, this damage can impair kidney function, leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and potentially end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) CDC Mayo Clinic.
- Prevalence: Around 1 in 3 adults with diabetes also develop CKD. This condition often progresses without obvious symptoms, making regular kidney function tests critical for early detection CDC CDC.
- Risk Factors: In addition to poorly managed diabetes, factors like high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, and a family history of kidney disease increase the likelihood of diabetic nephropathy Mayo Clinic CDC.
Prevention and Management
- Blood Sugar Control: Maintaining blood glucose levels within a healthy range can significantly slow kidney damage progression.
- Blood Pressure Management: Controlling hypertension reduces stress on the kidneys and prevents further damage.
- Dietary Adjustments: A kidney-friendly diet—low in sodium, phosphorus, and certain proteins—can help. For example, people with diabetes may switch from high-potassium fruits like oranges to lower-potassium alternatives like apples or berries CDC Mayo Clinic.
- Routine Monitoring: Regular urine and blood tests are crucial for monitoring kidney health and catching issues early CDC.
Long-Term Impacts
Left untreated, diabetic kidney disease can lead to complications such as fluid retention, cardiovascular issues, and eventually, the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant Mayo Clinic.
However, early detection and proactive management can preserve kidney function and improve quality of life for people with diabetes CDC CDC.
For more detailed guidance, visit resources like the CDC's Diabetes and Kidney Disease page or the Mayo Clinic's overview of diabetic nephropathy.