Type 2 Diabetes With Kidney Complications

Type 2 Diabetes With Kidney Complications
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Do Kidney Complications Always Happen With Type 2 Diabetes?

The answer to this question is no. As matter of fact, type 2 diabetes with kidney complications can be avoided all together.The kidney complication is also known as diabetic nephropathy. This condition can be controlled if the person with diabetes carefully monitors and controls their blood sugar levels.This complication happens over time. The first few years of a diabetic’s life, the filtering of the kidneys is usually higher than normal.

What Causes the Complication?

The major causes of this complication develop when the blood sugar and blood pressure are not maintained properly. However, there are indications that in some cases genetics can play a part in developing the condition.

When we eat protein, our bodies create waste products while it is being digested. There are tiny blood vessels in our kidneys that have tiny holes that are filters. As the waste products go through the tiny holes, they become part of the urine. Red blood cells and protein are too big to pass through the tiny holes and end up staying in the blood.

When a person’s blood sugar is too high, the kidneys filter too much blood, causing extra work on the filters. Over time, this causes the filters to leak too much protein into the urine, causing damage to the kidneys. When there is too much protein in the urine, this phase is called the microalbuminuria phase.

If treatment is given in the early stages, then there is a possibility that the condition can be prevented from worsening. If it is caught in the later stages known as macroalbuminuria then end stage renal disease usually takes place.

Are there Any Symptoms?

Yes, there are symptoms, however usually when the symptoms appear the kidneys have already started shutting down. The symptoms include loss of sleep, fluid buildup, weakness, poor appetite, difficulty concentrating and upset stomach.

How is This Complication Treated?

The treatment for a person with type 2 diabetes with kidney complications is first to maintain the control of their blood pressure and blood glucose levels. By controlling these factors, it can slow down the process of further development of the complication itself.

This can be done by eating less salt, losing weight, stop smoking, regular exercise, and avoid drinking alcohol. The doctor may prescribe medications to help control the blood pressure.

The doctor may also prescribe a low-protein diet since protein increases how hard the kidneys have to work.

When the later stages of renal disease is present the physician will usually recommend dialysis and/or kidney transplant. This is because when the damage is done, it is irreversible.

Conclusion:

Even though sometimes genetics plays a part in developing kidney complications, some preventive measures can be taken to lessen the chance of developing the condition of kidney failure. It is extremely important the a person with type 2 diabetes stay closely monitored by their physicians because they would be able to help maintain the overall health of the person and can help prevent complications.

It is also important for people to check with their doctor before making any changes in their diets, exercise, and medications or before starting any alternative treatments.

References:

American Diabetes Association

University Of California San Francisco

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases