Is Diabetic Kidney Disease More Than Just High Blood Sugar?
Published: May 12, 2024
Diabetic kidney disease is a major concern for people with diabetes, but it involves more than just high blood sugar levels. Understanding its manifestations and how it's diagnosed can shed light on how this condition affects the kidneys.
Contents
What is Diabetic Kidney Disease?
Diabetic kidney disease, often known as diabetic nephropathy, occurs when diabetes causes damage to the kidneys over time. This damage can lead to kidney failure if not managed properly. The main signs include albuminuria, where the kidneys leak protein into the urine, and a decrease in kidney function measured by the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). These symptoms typically develop silently and are caught during routine tests.
Understanding the Diagnosis
Diagnosing diabetic kidney disease usually involves checking for persistent albuminuria and reduced GFR over a period of time. Blood and urine tests are the primary tools used to monitor these indicators. Occasionally, a kidney biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis, especially if another kidney disease is suspected.
Common Misconceptions
A common misconception is that diabetic kidney disease follows a predictable pattern starting with high GFR and ending in kidney failure. However, recent studies show that this progression is not always linear. Albuminuria can sometimes improve, and kidney function can decline without noticeable albuminuria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Albuminuria is a condition where albumin, a type of protein, is found in urine, indicating kidney damage.
Kidney function is measured using the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which shows how well the kidneys filter waste.
While some symptoms may improve, diabetic kidney disease typically requires careful management to prevent progression.
No, a biopsy is only needed if other kidney diseases are suspected.
Key Takeaways
Diabetic kidney disease is complex, but understanding its manifestations and early diagnosis can help manage its impact.
Next steps: Talk with Doctronic about your kidney health if you have diabetes.Related Articles
References
Olivarius Nde F, Andreasen AH, Keiding N, Mogensen CE. Epidemiology of renal involvement in newly-diagnosed middle-aged and elderly diabetic patients. Diabetologia 1993; 36:1007.
Mogensen CE, Christensen CK. Predicting diabetic nephropathy in insulin-dependent patients. N Engl J Med 1984; 311:89.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.