How does diabetes mellitus cause chronic kidney disease?
The relationship between diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease is the development of diabetic nephropathy. Diabetic nephropathy is a result of protein found in the urine or proteinuria. Diabetic nephropathy is the most leading cause of end-stage renal disease. The proteins found in the urine create “glomerular lesions” which damages the kidneys, reducing the function of the kidneys. A person with diabetes mellitus will develop chronic kidney disease secondary to diabetic nephropathy within 0 to 5 years of being diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. In 5 to 15 years of being diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, a person’s chronic kidney disease will progress to end-stage renal disease, requiring them to be on hemodialysis if left untreated.
How is diabetic nephropathy treated?
The number one way to prevent or slow the progression of chronic kidney disease secondary to diabetic nephropathy is by strict glycemic control. Good control of blood glucose level is essential to reducing damage to your kidneys. Also, good blood pressure control is equally important. Glucose control and hypertension management begins with lifestyle change. This entails healthy diet and weight management. Your physician may also recommend that you start medicine to achieve good blood glucose and blood pressure control. Discuss with your physician what form of treatment is best for you.