Diabetic Kidney Complications - Complications of Diabetic Kidney Problems

Diabetic Kidney Complications
Diabetic Seniors

Diabetes and Kidney Complications

The kidneys are organs that act as a filtration system for the blood. They utilize a system of millions of blood vessels to remove waste particles from the blood. Without the kidneys, levels of toxic waste products accumulate to dangerous levels and can cause very serious health problems. Diabetes accounts for approximately 44% of kidney failure in the United States. Diabetic kidney complications are the result of unregulated blood sugar levels that over time deteriorate the ability for kidneys to filter waste.

Kidney Complications and Kidney Disease

The risk of developing a form of kidney disease, known as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), is also increased in patients diagnosed with diabetes. The course of kidney disease and eventually kidney failure is a process that takes place over several years. In fact, many people suffering from kidney disease may be completely unaware due to the absence of visible symptoms. Because the ability for the kidneys to filter blood remains relatively unchanged during the inception of kidney disease it is difficult for people suffering from kidney disease to detect these diabetes kidney complications. However, over the course of several years, small amounts of useful proteins accumulate in urine; this is known as microalbuminuria. As CKD progresses, higher amounts of proteins leak into urine while simultaneously the kidney’s filtration abilities worsen. Ultimately the kidneys loose all ability to filter blood and subsequently the patient will require either a kidney transplant or kidney dialysis.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension is another factor that significantly influences the functionality and health of kidneys. Abnormally high blood pressure, typically classified as blood pressure above 140/90, has the potential to accelerate kidney disease and ultimately lead to kidney failure. Medical researches assert that regulating blood pressure in conjunction with other key metabolic health indicators including blood sugar is essential to treat diabetic kidney complications.

Please keep in mind that this article on Diabetic Kidney Complications is intended solely as an informational document; consult a licensed physician before making any decisions regarding the management of individual cases of diabetes.

Source: National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC)
http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/kdd/index.htm

Diabetic Seniors Team