Kidneys
(Nephropathy) Diabetes
can cause damage to the kidneys, which is known as nephropathy. About a quarter
of people with diabetes may develop nephropathy, although the numbers are steadily
declining. In many cases if detected early the condition can be treated successfully
Symptoms
There are
no obvious symptoms of nephropathy in the early stages, which is why regular testing
is so important to detect the condition. If left untreated the body will lose
a lot of protein in the urine and this can lead to water retention or oedema,
especially around the ankles. Eventually the condition may result in the kidneys
being unable to remove waste products from the body. The person would then need
dialysis or a transplant. Testing for nephropathy can often be done using a urine
dipstick, which will show if there is any protein present. What
causes Nephropathy? Nephropathy
is caused by damage to the tiny blood vessels which supply the kidneys. The walls
of these blood vessels in the kidneys become thickened or irregular and this means
they are unable to filter waste products out of the blood into the urine properly.
Treatment
This involves
dietary changes, restricting the amount of protein in the diet, and controlling
high blood pressure, which can worsen the problem. The most important thing to
remember is to make sure you have your urine tested for protein at least once
a year. Next >>
Preventing Complications <<
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