Diabetes is a problem that affects more than 422 million people worldwide and if we speak of India alone, it affects more than 76 million people in the country. This clearly suggests that 1 out of every 6 people suffering from diabetes, on a global scale, is an Indian. These numbers have been a growing cause of concern and have made it even more important to prioritize a healthy lifestyle and eating habits.

Diabetes is marked by elevated blood glucose levels in the body. Glucose is the primary source of energy which is derived from the food that we consume. It is the insulin hormone that aids our cells in absorbing this glucose, however, in some cases, this does not happen, either due to the insufficient production of insulin or the inability of the produced insulin to carry out its functions efficiently. As this happens, the glucose starts to build up in your blood, causing your blood sugar levels to rise. Experts from the top nephrology surgery hospital in Thane suggest that it is not only diabetes that you have to be worried about but also the various complications that it can lead to, if not managed efficiently. In this blog, we have talked about one such complication that affects nearly one-fourth of the population living with diabetes. Wondering what it is? Well, it's none other than diabetic kidney disease or diabetic nephropathy

Let's first understand what it means

As it is quite evident from the name itself, diabetic kidney disease refers to the kidney disease that has been triggered by diabetes and is more common in people who have been living with the condition for years. As per the top nephrologists in Pune, it happens to be the leading cause of kidney failure, which is a life-threatening condition, marked by the loss of renal function.

It is pertinent to note that diabetic kidney disease can be developed by people suffering from Type 1 as well as Type 2 diabetes, however, there can be a slight difference between the two. Kidney disease associated with Type 1 diabetes is very rare in the first decade following the diagnosis whereas that associated with Type 2 diabetes may be diagnosed along with the disease itself. This is the reason why Type 2 diabetes is considered to be significantly dangerous.

Watching out for the symptoms

Every disease is characterized by certain symptoms and the same holds true for diabetic nephropathy as well. Experts from the best hospital in Pune suggest that many patients might not experience any symptoms initially and these tend to develop as the condition progresses. The most common symptoms that have been associated with diabetic nephropathy include:

• Uncontrollable change in the blood pressure
• Excessive content of protein in the urine
• Swelling in the lower extremities and hands due to fluid retention
• Increased and frequent urge to urinate
• Decreased dependency on insulin or medication for diabetes
• Unexplained loss of appetite
• Inability to concentrate due to the build-up of impurities in the blood
• Persistent itching due to the build-up of toxins in the body
• Fatigue and general body weakness
• Breathlessness.

If you can relate to any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you should immediately bring them to your doctor's notice. Diabetic kidney disease progresses through various stages and the earlier the problem is diagnosed the better it can be managed.

Wondering if you are at risk of developing diabetic Kidney Disease?

Being diabetic in itself is the primary risk factor for developing diabetic nephropathy or diabetic kidney disease, however, not everyone suffering from the condition develops it. There are several other risk factors that can put you at a higher risk of developing diabetic kidney disease. These are:

• Uncontrolled blood sugar levels
• Uncontrolled blood pressure levels
• Excessive smoking
• Elevated blood cholesterol levels
• Having a family history of diabetes or any condition related to the kidneys

If you wish to know more about diabetic kidney disease, you can conserve the expert from the best hospital in Pune today.