How does diabetes affect the kidneys?

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Dr Shubham Chauhan

General Practitioner

MBBS
4+ 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.

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Answered 04/07/2025

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Overview of Diabetes and Kidney Function
- Kidneys filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Diabetes can impair this process by damaging blood vessels.
How Diabetes Affects the Kidneys
- High blood sugar harms kidney blood vessels and filtering units (glomeruli), causing protein leakage into urine.
Stages of Diabetic Kidney Disease
- Early signs include microalbuminuria. It can progress to severe damage and reduced kidney function.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Common symptoms: swelling, fatigue. Regular urine and blood tests are crucial for early detection.
Management and Prevention
- Control blood sugar and blood pressure. Lifestyle changes and medications can protect kidneys. Consult specialists like nephrologists.
Importance of Regular Monitoring
- Routine check-ups are essential to detect and prevent progression of kidney issues.

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I'm 52 and I've been told I have diabetes with a creatinine level of 1.4. My urine creatinine is 15, which I understand is normal since it's below 30, and there are no proteins found. My HbA1c is 7.9. The Lifespan clinic suggested I see a kidney specialist because they believe my creatinine levels aren't related to my diabetes. Can you help me understand why my creatinine might be high if it's not due to diabetes?

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