One of the more common long-term complications of diabetes is diabetic renal disease ("renal" refers to the kidneys). Also known as diabetic nephropathy, this condition is a result of direct vascular abnormalities that accompany diabetes. Furthermore, diabetes mellitus is the main cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the most advanced stage of kidney disease.
Stages of ChronicKidney Disease (CKD)
There aresone of the progressivestages chronicof kidney disease.
Why does diabetes increase the risk for kidney disease?
Highblood sugar can overwork the kidneys, which over time damagethem. After many years, they start to leak small amounts of protein (albumin) into the urine, which indicates that the kidneys are damaged. Not everyone with diabetes develops kidney disease. Factors thatcan influence kidney disease development include genetics, blood sugarcontrol, and blood pressure. The better a person keeps diabetes and blood pressure undercontrol, the lower the chance of getting kidneydisease.
How are cardiovascular disease (CVD) and kidney disease related?
Chronic kidney disease can lead to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Conversely, CVD can lead to kidney disease, so the two diseases are strongly intertwined. According to studies, CVD begins to have an effect on the body as early as the first stage of kidney disease, and most people with ESRD die as a result of cardiovascular complications.
Risks that are often associated with kidney disease also contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.
What should I do if I have diabetes?
Many of the risk factors for kidney disease and CVD are treatable. If you have diabetes, take these steps:
Originally posted here:
Kidney Disease & Diabetes - American Heart Association