Diabetic nephropathy (diabetes and kidney disease)
About Diabetic nephropathy (diabetes and kidney disease)
Diabetic Nephropathy means kidney damage caused by diabetes. It is one of the more common complications caused by uncontrolled high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) for long periods of time. The elevated blood sugar causes injury to small blood vessels in the kidneys. As the kidneys become damaged they are unable to remove waste products from the blood. Over time the kidneys can completely fail requiring the patient to need dialysis or a kidney transplant. The likelihood of having this disorder increases with age and with the legnth of time someone has diabetes. Patinets with African-American, Hispainc, and American Indian descent who have high blood pressure (hypertension) are also more likely to suffer from diabetic nephropathy. This condition may occur in both Type I and Type II diabetics. Patients with this disorder do not began having symptoms until a majority of the kidney function is lost. This is why it is important for diabetic patients to have regular checks of their blood sugar and keep it under good control.Symptoms
Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Early symptoms may include ankle swelling and fatigue. Later symptoms may include decreased urination, nausea and vomiting.Tests & Diagnostics
A complete history and physical will be performed. Blood and urine tests will be done to measure the kidney function. A BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and a creatnine are the most common blood tests performed to measure kidney function. These tests are part of a complete metabolic panel (CMP). An ultrasound of the kidneys may also be performed to measure blood flow to the kidneys.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Choice of treatment is based on the progression of the disease. Blood glucose levels should be controlled to prevent further progression of the disease. Management of coexisting high blood pressure using a combination of diet (low sodium diet), exercise and medication is essential to slowing the progression of the disease. Most autorities recommend a blood pressure less than 130/80 mm Hg to prevent further kidney injury. End stage renal disease (ERSD) occurs when most of the kidney function is gone. Patients with ESRD may require dialysis or a kidney tansplantation.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Nephrology · Family Practice · Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism · Pediatric Endocrinology · Pediatric Nephrology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Diabetic nephropathy (diabetes and kidney disease).