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Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that occurs when your body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels properly. As a result, blood sugar levels rise, leading to a host of health complications. One of the most significant and potentially dangerous complications of diabetes is kidney disease. In this article, we will explore the connection between diabetes and kidney disease, how diabetes can affect the kidneys, and what steps you can take to protect your kidney health if you have diabetes.
Understanding Diabetes and Kidney Disease
Diabetes is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 34 million Americans have diabetes, and 1 in 5 of them don’t know they have it. Diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin or the body’s inability to use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use glucose (sugar) for energy. When your body cannot use insulin properly, glucose builds up in your bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, leading to kidney disease. Kidney disease is a serious condition that can progress over time and, if left untreated, can lead to kidney failure. If you have diabetes, you are at increased risk of developing kidney disease. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease in the United States.
How Diabetes Affects the Kidneys
- Damage to the Blood Vessels: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, leading to a condition called diabetic nephropathy. When the blood vessels in your kidneys are damaged, your kidneys cannot function properly, leading to kidney disease.
- Damage to the Nerves: Diabetes can also damage the nerves that control your bladder. This damage can lead to problems with bladder function and can increase your risk of urinary tract infections, which can further damage your kidneys.
- Damage to the Glomeruli: The glomeruli are tiny filters in your kidneys that help remove waste from your blood. Diabetes can damage these filters, leading to a condition called glomerulosclerosis. When the glomeruli are damaged, waste products build up in your blood, leading to kidney disease.
- Increased Risk of Infections: Diabetes can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Infections, such as urinary tract infections, can damage your kidneys over time.
- Increased Blood Pressure: Diabetes can also lead to high blood pressure, which can damage your blood vessels and your kidneys over time.
Preventing Kidney Disease if You Have Diabetes
If you have diabetes, it is essential to take steps to protect your kidney health. Here are some tips to help you prevent kidney disease:
- Keep Your Blood Sugar Levels Under Control: Keeping your blood sugar levels under control is the most important thing you can do to protect your kidney health. Talk to your doctor about setting blood sugar goals and how to achieve them.
- Control Your Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can damage your kidneys over time. Work with your doctor to control your blood pressure and keep it within a healthy range.
- Follow a Healthy Diet: Eating a healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and keep your blood sugar levels under control. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about a healthy diet plan.
- Exercise Regularly: Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, control your blood sugar levels, and lower your blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that is right for you.