Can diabetes affect my kidney health?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Anshul Maheshwari

General Practitioner

MBBS
5+ Yrs

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With time, raised blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the kidneys as well as nephrons making them not work as well as they should. Many people with diabetes also develop high blood pressure, which can damage kidneys too.

Dr. Anshul Suggests...

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Answered 04/07/2025

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How Diabetes Affects Kidney Health
- High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time, leading to diabetic nephropathy.
Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy)
- A common complication in diabetes. Watch for symptoms like frequent urination, increased thirst, and fatigue.
Risk Factors and Progression
- Increased risk with longer diabetes duration, poor blood pressure control, and unhealthy lifestyle. Untreated, it can lead to kidney failure.
Diagnosis and Monitoring
- Regular tests like urine albumin, blood creatinine, and eGFR are crucial for assessing kidney function.
Prevention and Management
- Control blood sugar and blood pressure. Use medications like ACE inhibitors. Adopt a healthy lifestyle with diet and exercise.
When to Consult a Specialist
- Nephrologists and endocrinologists can help manage diabetic kidney disease effectively.

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