The Effects of Diabetes on Renal Function

Kidney disease is a common and scary issue for people with diabetes. Though not everyone with diabetes will experience issues with renal function, it is important to know how to properly take care of yourself to prevent from becoming seriously ill.

Significance

• If your blood sugar levels are elevated, which is common in people with diabetes, your kidneys can become overworked to the point that they stop functioning.

Benefits

• The earlier you are diagnosed with diabetic kidney disease, the better the chances your doctors have to treat it.

Identification

• The most common symptom of renal dysfunction is the build-up of fluid. As the disease progresses, you may experience sour stomach, poor sleep, lack of appetite and trouble with concentrating.

Prevention/Solution

• The best way to prevent diabetic renal disease is closely monitor your blood sugar level. You will probably also need to alter your diet to keep your level down.

Warning

• If your kidneys fail as a result of diabetic renal disease, you will need to undergo dialysis, or even require a kidney transplant.