Kidney Diseases Can Worsen Diabetes: How To Protect Your Kidneys

Having kidney diseases can worsen diabetes. And it is true the other way around as well. Moreover, health experts say that managing both becomes extremely tough when an individual has both. Diabetes—both Type 1 and Type 2—are the main reasons besides chronic kidney disease.

Diabetes-related high blood sugar gradually deteriorates the kidney's arteries, making it harder for the organ to remove waste from the blood. If left unattended, diabetic nephropathy, can eventually lead to renal failure.

On the other hand, kidney illnesses can affect the body's ability to handle insulin and blood sugar, which makes managing diabetes more difficult. In people suffering from chronic kidney disease, insulin clearance is decreased which raises blood insulin concentrations. Frequent hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, might result from this, making diabetes management more difficult.

Moreover, hypertension, another risk factor for exacerbating diabetes-related problems, including heart disease, is frequently brought on by renal illness. Furthermore, fluid retention and electrolyte abnormalities brought on by kidney illness make it challenging to keep stable blood sugar levels. Since the kidneys are not fully able to process and eliminate pharmaceuticals, there is a greater chance of side effects. As a result, medications used to manage diabetes may also need to be changed.

What Are Kidney Stones?

In simple terms, kidney stones are caused by waste that accumulates and clumps together in the kidneys, leading to pain and difficulty urinating. Kidney stones can be treated with increased fluid intake and pain management for small stones, while larger ones may require procedures like shock wave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy. Dietary changes can help prevent future stones after treatment.

Protecting your kidneys is crucial for overall health. Here are some key steps to keep them healthy:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your kidneys filter waste and toxins more effectively.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit salt, processed foods, and excessive protein, which can strain the kidneys.

3. Exercise Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, which can damage the kidneys.

4. Monitor Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar: High blood pressure and diabetes are leading causes of kidney disease. Keep both under control with medication, diet, and regular check-ups.

5. Avoid Overuse of Painkillers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can harm the kidneys if taken excessively. Use them only as needed and follow your doctor’s guidance.

6. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of kidney damage. Limiting or avoiding them helps preserve kidney function.

7. Get Regular Check-ups: Annual kidney function tests can help detect early signs of kidney disease, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

By following these steps, you can help protect your kidneys and ensure their long-term health.