Diabetic Nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy is a serious kidney related complication of diabetes. About a quarter of patients with diabetes develop this condition.

Over time, diabetes causes damage to glomeruli in the kidneys. These glomeruli are responsible for filtering waste from the blood. Damage to glomeruli leads to decreased kidney function and eventually, kidney failure.

As a result of the reduced kidney function, other complications such as fluid retention, cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and anaemia may develop. If left untreated, the irreversible damage done to the kidneys will eventually require dialysis or kidney transplantation for survival.

To prevent the development of diabetic nephropathy, treatment of diabetes is essential. Other conditions such as high blood pressure, and obesity also have to be actively managed. In essence, a healthy lifestyle is imperative to prevent diabetic nephropathy.

Sources:

https://nkfs.org/kidney-failure/diabetic-nephropathy/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-nephropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20354556

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-nephropathy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354562

https://www.sunshinehospitals.com/an-overview-of-diabetic-nephropathy/

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