What You Should Know

●Diabetes increases the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) also known as Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) or diabetic nephropathy.

●CKD may go unnoticed in the early stages where there are no symptoms.

●About 1 in 3 adults with diabetes may have CKD.

●In the latter stages symptoms may include: 

  1. High blood pressure.
  2. Swelling of feet, ankles, hands.
  3. Body weakness 
  4. Shortness of breath.
  5. Nausea, vomiting.
  6. Confusion.

● It can lead to Kidney failure, also known as end-stage kidney disease.

● Therefore it is important for people with diabetes to undergo regular screening for CKD to allow early detection of this complication.

How does Diabetes cause Chronic Kidney disease 

•High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the kidneys and nephrons.

•CKD develops slowly. It damages the filtering system of the kidneys hence imparing it's function of removing waste products and excess fluid from the body.

•Individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are at risk of developing CKD.

•Additionally, hypertension is also associated with CKD.

•Symptoms usually appear when the disease is advanced hence requiring dialysis or kidney transplant to survive.

Preventive Tips for CKD among people with Diabetes.

■ Manage your blood sugar level by adhering to your diabetes managemet plan and conducting A1C tests atleast every 6 months.

■Take your medication as directed and avoid overuse of non-steroidal anti inflammatory medications and other pain relievers.

■Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels through exercise and medication as directed by your doctor.

■Be physically active and avoid obesity.

■ Eat foods low in sodium, take adequate fruits and vegetables. 

■Regular screening for CKD. 

■Avoid smoking.