Diabetic nephropathy is a type of progressive kidney disease that may occur in people who have diabetes. It affects people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and risk increases with the duration of the disease and other risk factors like high blood pressure and a family history of kidney disease.
Over 40 percent cases of kidney failure are caused by diabetes, and it’s estimated that approximately 180,000 people are living with kidney failure caused by complications of diabetes. Diabetes is also the most common cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
ESRD is the fifth and final stage of diabetic nephropathy. Diabetic nephropathy progresses slowly. With early treatment, you can slow or even stop the progression of the disease. Not everyone who develops diabetic nephropathy will progress to kidney failure or ESRD, and having diabetes does not mean you will develop diabetic nephropathy.
Symptoms of ESRD may include:
- fatigue
- general overall unwell feeling
- loss of appetite
- headache
- itchy and dry skin
- nausea or vomiting
- swelling of your arms and legs
Other factors have been shown to increase your risk of getting diabetic nephropathy, such as:
- being African-American,Hispanic, or American Indian
- having a family history of kidney disease
- developing type 1 diabetes before you are 20 years of age
- smoking
- being overweight or obese
- having other diabetes complications, such as eye disease or nerve damage
How is diabetic nephropathy diagnosed?
- Microalbuminuria urine test
- BUN blood test
- Serum Creatinine Blood Test
- Kidney Biopsy
How is diabetic nephropathy treated ?
Medication
Diet and other lifestyle change.
ESRD Treatment
Tips for healthy kidneys :
If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, there are steps you can take to keep your kidneys healthy and reduce your risk for diabetic nephropathy.
- Keep your blood sugar levels within their target range.
- Manage your blood pressure and get treatment for high blood pressure.
- If you smoke, quit. Work with your doctor if you need help finding and sticking to a smoking cessation plan.
- Lose weight if you’re overweight or obese.
- Maintain a healthy diet that’s low in sodium. Focus on eating fresh or frozen produce, lean meats, whole grains, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of processed foods which can be loaded with salt and empty calories.
- Make exercise a regular part of your routine. Start slowly and be sure to work with your doctor to determine the best exercise program for you. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your blood pressure.