Double trouble: diabetes and kidney disease

The kidneys are often called the body’s workhorse. They filter waste, balance fluids and minerals, and help control your blood pressure. If you have diabetes — the #1 cause of kidney disease — it’s especially important to protect these fabulous filters. High blood sugar damages your kidneys, often without you even knowing. And kidney problems, in turn, can affect your blood sugar.

You can break this harmful cycle. If you live with diabetes, you should get tested every year to look for early signs of kidney disease and avoid complications. The MNPS Health Care Centers can perform these tests.

Between tests, follow these kidney care tips:

1.    Keep your blood sugar in check. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels in your kidneys. The more consistently you stay within your target blood sugar range, the less strain you put on these vital organs.

2.    Control your blood pressure. High blood pressure often accompanies diabetes and speeds up kidney damage. Most people with diabetes should aim for a blood pressure below 130/80. Your primary care provider or endocrinologist can help you set a goal that’s right for you.

3.    Take medications that protect your kidneys. Medications like ACE inhibitors, ARBs or SGLT2 inhibitors do more than control blood pressure and blood sugar — they can also help protect your kidneys. If your provider prescribes them, take as directed and report any side effects.

4.    Eat a kidney-friendly diet. Ease the burden on your kidneys by eating a balanced diet that’s lower in sodium and processed foods. A registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan that supports both your diabetes and your kidney health.

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Meet with a registered dietitian at Foodsmart at no cost to you.

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5.    Stay active and hydrated. Regular exercise can help keep your blood pressure and blood sugar at healthy levels. And drinking enough water — unless your provider advises otherwise — helps your kidneys flush out toxins.

6.    Be careful with medications and supplements. Some over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or naproxen, can damage kidneys if used too often. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new OTC medications or supplements.

7.    Don’t wait for symptoms. We mentioned it before, but it’s worth repeating: If you live with diabetes, get an annual kidney function test. Simple lab tests — like checking for albumin (a protein) in your urine and measuring creatinine in your blood — can catch early signs of kidney problems. Kidney disease usually progresses silently. By the time symptoms like swelling, fatigue or changes in urination appear, significant damage may already be done. That’s why regular monitoring and proactive care are essential.

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Schedule your kidney tests today

All five MNPS Health Care Centers perform kidney function tests if you have diabetes. Call 615-259-8755 or visit MNPSHealth.org/schedule to schedule an appointment.

Sources: American Diabetes Association; National Kidney Foundation