Your Kidneys
Everyone with diabetes should have their urine tested for protein at regular intervals. If too much protein is discovered, kidney function will be further tested.
The role of the kidneys
Healthy kidneys act like a filter. Blood flows through them and is filtered, so that useful substances are kept in the blood, and toxic or unnecessary waste is removed in the urine. They also make sure that the amount and composition of body fluids are kept within the healthy range, and make some hormones. These processes also contribute to the regulation of blood pressure.
How do I know if my kidneys are being damaged?
Over a number of years, diabetes and high blood pressure can damage small blood vessels in the kidney. The first sign that the kidneys are being damaged by diabetes is that they start leaking protein into the urine. Healthy kidneys act like a sieve, holding onto protein. Once they become damaged, it leaks out. You and your doctor can detect this problem with a simple urine test, and can take steps to address it.
Detecting problems early
In this early stage, the damage can be reversed with tight blood sugar and blood pressure control, hence the importance of regular urine testing at clinic visits. If the problem is not dealt with as soon as possible, the kidneys slowly work less and less well. If leaking protein is detected early, your doctor can prescribe suitable drug treatment to stop it progressing.
Long-term problems
If kidney damage goes untreated, the kidneys slowly stop working. For some unfortunate people this means they will have to rely on a ‘dialysis’ machine, or someone else’s kidney, to do the work that their kidneys can no longer do. If your kidneys become badly affected by your diabetes you may be referred to a renal unit – a department that specializes in treating kidney disease.
Keeping your kidneys healthy
Good control of your blood sugar and blood pressure are vital. If you have high blood pressure, it is much harder for your kidneys to stay healthy, so your doctor may suggest medication to keep your blood pressure from getting too high. Keeping your fat intake to a minimum also helps protect your kidneys. Smoking accelerates kidney damage, and it is important to stop smoking. If you aren’t sure of the best way to give up, ask your doctor for advice. If you take control of these aspects of your diabetes, your kidneys will thank you!
Keeping your kidneys healthy
Good control of your blood sugar and blood pressure are vital. If you have high blood pressure, it is much harder for your kidneys to stay healthy, so your doctor may suggest medication to keep your blood pressure from getting too high. Keeping your fat intake to a minimum also helps protect your kidneys. Smoking accelerates kidney damage, and it is important to stop smoking. If you aren’t sure of the best way to give up, ask your doctor for advice. If you take control of these aspects of your diabetes, your kidneys will thank you!
APP/KOL/AC 22/02/07