Diabetic Nephropathy
Alternate Names : Diabetic Kidney Disease, Diabetic Sclerosis, Diabetic Glomerulosclerosis
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Three primary methods are recommended to prevent or at least delay the onset of diabetic nephropathy:
close or tight control of blood sugar levels
control of blood pressure. People with diabetes may even benefit from having blood pressure that is lower than normal.
the use of medications known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as captopril or lisinopril
In addition, materials that can damage the kidneys should be avoided if possible. These materials include contrast dyes that are injected into a vein during some X-ray tests and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. Any urinary tract infections should be treated with antibiotics. People should also be careful to keep themselves properly hydrated by drinking enough fluids.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Long-term, gradual worsening of diabetic nephropathy is expected. The greater the control over blood sugar levels, the slower the condition will progress and the less severe it will become. However, this condition progresses despite the tightest control.
The most serious long-term effect of diabetic nephropathy is kidney failure leading to end-stage renal disease. In this situation, a person will require dialysis or a kidney transplant. Dialysis usually involves hooking a person up to a machine to filter his or her blood. Once dialysis is begun, it must be continued for life unless a kidney transplant is received.
What are the risks to others?
Diabetic nephropathy is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
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