Relationship Between Renal Failure & Glucose Metabolism

Renal failure is a condition characterized by loss of function in the kidneys and the buildup of dangerous waste products and fluid in the body. Chronic renal failure is frequently the result of blood glucose irregularities associated with diabetes.

The Facts

• Diabetes causes the body to be unable to properly control the metabolism of glucose from food sources such as carbohydrates. If left untreated, a glucose buildup in the bloodstream can lead to severe degradation of kidney function.

Effects of Renal Failure

• When kidney function degrades, the resulting buildup of waste and fluid impairs numerous bodily functions, including bone health, blood pressure control and the normal production of red blood cells. If left untreated, the results may be fatal.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of chronic renal failure include fatigue, headache, unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.

Controlling Renal Failure and Diabetes

• Controlling chronic renal failure requires control of the underlying physical ailment. In the case of diabetes, a program to control blood glucose metabolism must be established.

Considerations

• According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, chronic renal failure can advance significantly before any outward signs appear. The disease can progress so slowly that clear symptoms do not appear until less than one-tenth of normal kidney function remains.