When it comes to diabetes
many diabetics believe
that simply controlling blood sugar is enough
But little do they know
that diabetes, as an endocrine and metabolic disease
affects every aspect of the body
Among which, the kidneys are attacked by high blood sugar
and the kidneys are one of the primary targets
Case of Diabetic Nephropathy
Mr. Ou, 59 years old, was diagnosed with diabetes 6 years ago but failed to take it seriously and did not receive proper treatment.
Two years ago, Mr. Ou was diagnosed with chronic renal failure stage 5 (uremia) and now relies on peritoneal dialysis to maintain partial renal metabolic (excretory) function. For improved quality of life, the best treatment option is a successful kidney transplant surgery. Upon learning of this outcome, Mr. Ou and his family were devastated with regret.
Dr. Chen Wen Conducting Examinations for the Patient
Why Does Diabetes Progress to Uremia?
Dr. Chen Wen, a renowned nephrologist in Hainan and director of the Nephrology Department at Hainan Chengmei Hospital, explains that diabetes and uremia, two seemingly unrelated diseases, actually have a strong connection. If diabetes is not controlled in a timely manner, patients in a constant state of hyperglycemia can develop renal microvascular disease, which increases vascular pressure in the kidneys, leading to changes in kidney structure and morphology, and ultimately inducing diabetic nephropathy.
Dr. Chen Wen at Outpatient Clinic (Archival Image)
Diabetic nephropathy is clinically divided into five stages, characterized by early persistent proteinuria. Most patients show no obvious symptoms, while some may experience increased foam in urine, gradual renal dysfunction, hypertension, and edema. In the late stages, severe renal failure and uremia can occur, requiring dialysis treatment.
If diabetics experience symptoms such as proteinuria, hypertension, and edema, they should seek medical attention promptly and undergo urine routine and renal function tests to determine the presence of diabetic nephropathy. If diagnosed, patients should actively cooperate with doctors in treating the condition by controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, reducing proteinuria, protecting renal function, and delaying disease progression.
How to Prevent Diabetic Nephropathy?
Experts emphasize that prevention is better than treatment for diabetic nephropathy.
1. Control Blood Sugar: It is crucial for preventing and treating diabetic nephropathy. Follow doctor’s advice, maintain a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, take medication or insulin injections on time, and keep blood sugar within the target range.
2. Control Blood Pressure: Hypertension is a significant risk factor for diabetic nephropathy. Regularly monitor blood pressure, take medication as prescribed, and maintain blood pressure within normal limits.
3. Regular Check-ups: Diabetics should undergo regular urine routine and renal function tests to detect diabetic nephropathy early and initiate timely treatment.
4. Balanced Diet: Follow a low-salt, low-fat, and diabetic-friendly diet. Consume adequate amounts of high-quality protein and eat plenty of vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and fiber.
5. Moderate Exercise: Appropriate exercise can help control blood sugar and blood pressure, reduce weight, and improve immunity. However, attention should be paid to exercise intensity and duration to avoid overexertion.
Expert Introduction
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And does not constitute clinical diagnosis or medical advice
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Written by | Huang Fei
Video by | He Junpeng