Is it possible to repair kidney damage caused by diabetes?
Diabetic nephropathy, a condition characterised by kidney damage due to long-term diabetes, is a significant concern for people living with the disease. This condition leads to a progressive loss of kidney function, potentially resulting in kidney failure [1][3].
The primary cause of diabetic nephropathy is the damage inflicted on the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli) by consistently high blood glucose levels [1][3]. Over time, this damage impedes the kidneys' ability to remove waste and fluids from the body effectively.
In its early stages, diabetic nephropathy often shows no symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, common symptoms may include swelling of hands, feet, and face; protein in the urine; increased urinary frequency; fatigue; difficulty concentrating or sleeping; itching; high blood pressure; muscle twitching; poor appetite; drowsiness; and changes in urine color or taste [1][3].
Preventing and managing diabetic nephropathy revolve around maintaining tight control of blood sugar and blood pressure levels to slow down the progression of kidney damage [1][3]. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet low in refined carbohydrates and saturated fats, regular aerobic exercise, and weight management can help reduce the risk [1][3].
Early diagnosis through urine and blood tests is crucial for timely intervention with medications and lifestyle modifications to delay or prevent kidney failure [1][3][2]. Regular check-ups and testing of kidney function are essential for people living with diabetes.
Other factors that contribute to the risk of diabetic nephropathy include long periods of high blood pressure, not following a diabetes care plan, not engaging in physical activity, following a diet high in salt, having obesity, smoking, having heart disease, having a family history of kidney failure, belonging to certain ethnic groups, such as African American, Native American, or Hispanic populations [2].
It's important to note that once kidney damage has occurred due to diabetes, it cannot be reversed. However, people can take measures to prevent or delay the onset of kidney disease. These measures include maintaining hydration, altering their diet, getting regular exercise, and following a diabetes care plan [2].
Quitting smoking, limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet can also improve kidney health [2]. Regular sleep and exercise are beneficial for overall kidney health [2].
In conclusion, diabetic nephropathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods, people living with diabetes can take proactive steps to manage their condition and protect their kidney health. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are key to delaying or preventing the onset of kidney disease.
- Diabetic nephropathy, a disease characterized by kidney damage due to long-term diabetes, is a significant concern for people living with the disease.
- This condition, known as a chronic kidney disease, potentially leads to kidney failure as it progressively impedes the kidneys' ability to remove waste and fluids from the body.
- Science has identified the primary cause of diabetic nephropathy as the damage inflicted on the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli) by consistently high blood glucose levels.
- Left unchecked, diabetic nephropathy could lead to severe medical-conditions such as chronic diseases, affecting one's overall health and wellness.
- Preventing and managing diabetic nephropathy involves maintaining tight control of blood sugar and blood pressure levels, as well as lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management.
- Early diagnosis through regular check-ups, urine, and blood tests is crucial for managing this chronic disease, enabling timely intervention with medications and lifestyle modifications to delay or prevent kidney failure.
