What To Know About The Diabetes & Kidney Health Connection

If you have diabetes, you already know how important it is to manage your blood sugar. But did you know that diabetes can also affect your kidneys? Over time, high blood sugar can damage these vital organs, sometimes without any early symptoms.

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease in the United States, but the good news is that you can prevent or slow most kidney problems with the right care. Megan Henderson, NP, a family medicine nurse practitioner at Franciscan Health, explains how diabetes and kidney health are connected and what you can do to protect yourself.

Key Takeaways: Diabetes and Kidney Disease

• Diabetes and kidney health are more connected than you think. Keep your blood sugar under control to lower your risk for kidney disease.
• Small changes can make a big difference. Stay hydrated, take medications as prescribed, eat a balanced diet and monitor your blood sugar levels at home. These steps can all help prevent kidney damage associated with diabetes.
• Don’t wait to ask questions. If you notice swelling, fatigue or changes in urination, or if you’re unsure about your test results, reach out to your healthcare provider.

What Are The Early Signs Of Kidney Damage From Diabetes?

Kidney damage often develops slowly, and symptoms may be subtle at first. Be on the lookout for swelling, unexplained fatigue and changes in urination.

“People might notice they don’t urinate as much, or they have swelling in their legs or feet,” Henderson said. “Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, confusion, loss of appetite, nausea or itching.”

Early signs of kidney damage from diabetes can be easy to overlook, so it’s essential to have your doctor check your kidney function regularly. A simple urine test can detect protein, one of the first signs of kidney trouble.

What Is The Connection Between Diabetes And Kidney Disease?

Your kidneys act like your body’s filtration system. They remove waste and balance your fluids, salts and electrolytes.

High blood sugar can damage delicate blood vessels that feed blood to the kidneys. It can also trigger inflammation (swelling and irritation) in the kidneys, which can cause tissue damage. Over time, this damage makes it harder for the kidneys to filter waste, increasing the risk for kidney disease or even kidney failure.

How Can Blood Pressure And Kidney Disease Create Problems?

Diabetes can also cause blood vessels to stiffen, which leads to another condition called hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertension adds extra strain to your kidneys and creates a cycle that can lead to further damage.

“When your blood pressure is high, less blood flows to your kidneys, which increases your blood pressure,” Henderson said. “Your kidneys continue to weaken and can’t filter waste or control blood pressure as effectively. It becomes a vicious cycle.”

In advanced kidney disease, the body retains fluid, particularly in the legs and feet. Treatment can include dialysis to filter your blood when your kidneys can’t.

Can People Prevent Kidney Damage From Diabetes?

Henderson emphasized these basics to prevent kidney damage:

• Take your medications as prescribed.
• Follow a diabetic-friendly diet.
• See your diabetes care team routinely.
• Stay hydrated. “Water helps fluids flow through our kidneys the way it should,” she noted.
• Monitor your blood sugar and blood pressure at home. Affordable monitors can help you take control of your health.
• Don’t smoke and limit alcohol use. Smoking and alcohol can worsen blood pressure and strain the kidneys.
• Stay active and maintain a healthy weight. Even light exercise helps circulation and kidney function.

Understanding how to care for your kidneys can help you stay healthy and prevent future complications. It can also help you enjoy life to the fullest!

At Franciscan Health, we know every person’s diabetes journey is unique. If you’d like to explore what’s new in diabetes care, discover the latest advancements in treating diabetes and how they can support your long-term health.

When Should I See A Kidney Specialist If I Have Diabetes?

If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider will regularly check your A1C (a three-month average of blood sugar levels) and kidney function.

“I usually refer patients to a kidney specialist once they develop moderate kidney disease,” Henderson said. “That’s when we start to see lab test results that need a closer look.”

A Franciscan Health kidney specialist may adjust medications, such as blood pressure or cholesterol drugs, to better support kidney health. Even if you feel well, keep those regular appointments to prevent minor problems from becoming serious.

What’s The Best Way To Take Charge Of Your Kidney Health?

Henderson encouraged people with diabetes to stay informed and take a proactive approach.

“Educate yourself about your condition and ask questions when you need help,” she said. “This can make a real difference in managing your health.”

Remember, diabetes can affect more than your kidneys, it can impact your heart health too. Learn about the connection between diabetes and heart disease and steps you can take to protect both.

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