Diabetic nephropathy
Diabetic nephropathy (pronounced: di-uh-BET-ik nef-ROP-uh-thee) is a serious kidney-related complication of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. It is also called diabetic kidney disease.
Etymology
The term "Diabetic nephropathy" is derived from the Greek words "diabetes" (a siphon) and "nephros" (kidney). The term "nephropathy" means damage or disease of the kidney.
Overview
Diabetic nephropathy affects the ability of the kidneys to do their usual work of removing waste products and extra fluid from the body. The best way to prevent or delay diabetic nephropathy is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and treating diabetes and high blood pressure.
Symptoms
In the early stages of diabetic nephropathy, you may not notice any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Swelling in the hands, feet, and face
- Weight gain from fluid buildup
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Poor appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness or fatigue
- Anemia and other blood abnormalities
Causes
Diabetic nephropathy is caused by damage to small blood vessels in the kidneys. This damage can cause the vessels to become leaky or, in some cases, to stop working, making the kidneys work harder.
Risk Factors
The following factors may increase the risk of developing diabetic nephropathy:
- Poor control of blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Family history of kidney disease
- Age, with risk increasing as you get older
- Race or ethnicity, with African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and American Indians being at higher risk than whites
Prevention
Prevention of diabetic nephropathy involves managing diabetes and monitoring blood pressure. Lifestyle changes and medications can help control high blood pressure.
Treatment
Treatment for diabetic nephropathy focuses on slowing the progression of kidney damage. This is often done by controlling high blood sugar and high blood pressure, and by making dietary changes.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Diabetic nephropathy
- Wikipedia's article - Diabetic nephropathy
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