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Home > Diabetic Nephropathy

Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Jayameena P, Nephrologist, Baby Memorial Hospitals-Kozhikode

Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD), also called diabetic nephropathy, is kidney damage caused by long-term uncontrolled diabetes. High blood sugar damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste. Early detection and proper management can slow or prevent progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure.

What is diabetic kidney disease?

Diabetic kidney disease is a complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage the filtering units (glomeruli) in the kidneys. Over time, this leads to protein leakage in urine, reduced kidney function, and in severe cases, kidney failure.

What are the symptoms of diabetic kidney disease?

In the early stages, DKD often has no noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, patients may experience swelling in the feet and ankles, fatigue, nausea, changes in urination, and difficulty controlling blood pressure.

How is diabetic kidney disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves:

  • Urine tests to detect protein (albuminuria)
  • Blood tests to measure creatinine and estimate kidney function (GFR)
  • Blood pressure checks since hypertension often accompanies DKD
How is diabetic kidney disease managed?

Management focuses on controlling diabetes and protecting kidney function through:

  • Tight blood sugar control with medications, insulin, and diet
  • Blood pressure management (often with ACE inhibitors or ARBs)
  • Cholesterol control to reduce cardiovascular risk
  • Kidney-friendly diet with reduced salt, protein, and potassium (as advised)
  • Avoiding nephrotoxic drugs (such as certain painkillers)
  • Regular monitoring of kidney function and urine protein levels
Can diabetic kidney disease be prevented?

Yes. Prevention includes strict control of blood sugar and blood pressure, regular kidney function tests, a healthy diet, exercise, and quitting smoking. Early intervention can delay or prevent kidney damage in people with diabetes.

What happens if diabetic kidney disease progresses?

If kidney damage becomes severe, patients may need dialysis or a kidney transplant. The goal of early management is to delay or avoid reaching end-stage kidney disease.

What lifestyle changes help protect kidneys in diabetes?
  • Following a low-salt, kidney-friendly diet
  • Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding alcohol and tobacco
  • Drinking adequate fluids (as recommended by the doctor)
  • Taking medications regularly and attending follow-up appointments
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