Kidney disorders in diabetics can essentially result in the collapse of the kidneys requiring regular dialysis or kidney transplantation. However, studies have reported that it may take more than 20 years for this to occur. During this period the kidney damage continues unabated and is seldom associated with any symptoms! Indeed, a silent killer it is!
Presentation It has been claimed that about 3% of the individuals who have been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can already be suffering from nephropathy! Although the percentage may seem less, given the number of individuals being diagnosed with diabetes, it is quite significant. Further, the risk of nephropathy is highest in individuals who have been suffering from diabetes for 10-20 years. Therefore, doctors advise early intervention to control or prevent damage to the kidneys.
Nephropathy can sometimes be asymptomatic. However, the occurrence/presence of any of the following symptoms or conditions can indicate the presence or risk of nephropathy:
- Foamy urine
- Presence of proteinuria (proteins in urine)
- Generalized tiredness with swelling of the foot
Additionally, the risk of nephropathy is high in diabetic individuals who are already diagnosed with conditions such as diabetic retinopathy (common eye disorder noted in diabetics), high blood pressure (hypertension), and heart disorders.
The Consequence
Imagine the consequence of the vacancy of an organ which helps in the clearing away of toxic wastes in your body! Individuals with kidney failure require clearing of the toxic wastes in the body through a mechanical process called dialysis at regular intervals. In case where the kidney damage is severe or if a significant amount of kidney tissues are damaged, kidney transplantation becomes necessary. These are generally associated with numerous other complications! All in all, a heavy price for ignorance.
Prevention - Role of HbA1c Levels
Preventing nephropathy is in the hands of the individuals who have been diagnosed with diabetes. Proper control of the blood glucose levels is highly necessary to prevent numerous complications associated with diabetes. This can be achieved by following a proper diet, indulging in physical activity regularly, and taking the medications as advised by your physician.
Blood glucose levels are measured at regular intervals to know whether diabetes is under control. Additionally, HbA1c (a form of hemoglobin, the pigment that carries oxygen and imparts red color to blood) levels are the best indicators of blood glucose control in diabetics. It gives an overall picture and remains constant when compared to glucose levels which may vary at times. Any abnormality in the HbA1c levels can suggest improper glucose control. Researchers have suggested that maintaining HbA1c levels at 7% is desirable to prevent kidney damage.
Blood Pressure Levels
Presence of high blood pressure tends to increase your risk of developing kidney disorders further. While hypertension can induce damage to the blood vessels of the kidneys, the presence of diabetes further accentuates the risk. Therefore, blood pressure levels need to be maintained within 130-139 over 80-85 mmHg (millimeter of mercury, a measure used to indicate blood pressure levels).
Keeping these two under control can keep kidney disorders at bay!
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