Why having kidney disease can worsen diabetes | Health News
Diabetes and kidney disease are closely related, and having one can make the other worse. Moreover, experts stress that managing these conditions becomes even more difficult when an individual has both. “Diabetes is one of the main causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes-related high blood sugar gradually deteriorates the kidneys’ arteries, making it harder for the organs to remove waste from the blood. If left untreated, diabetic nephropathy —a slowly progressing condition — can result in end-stage renal failure,” said Dr Mohit Khirbat, consultant, nephrology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.
Kidney illness affects the body’s ability to handle insulin and blood sugar, which makes managing diabetes more difficult, noted Dr Khirbat. “Normal kidney function helps control blood insulin levels; however, in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), insulin clearance is decreased, which raises blood insulin concentrations. Frequent hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, might result from this, making diabetes management more difficult,” said Dr Khirbat.
Moreover, hypertension, another risk factor for exacerbating diabetes-related problems, including heart disease, is frequently brought on by renal illness. “Furthermore, fluid retention and electrolyte abnormalities brought on by kidney illness make it challenging to keep stable blood sugar levels. Since the kidneys are not fully able to process and eliminate pharmaceuticals, there is a greater chance of side effects. As a result, medications used to manage diabetes may also need to be changed,” said Dr Khirbat.
Here’s what to consider (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
In addition, kidney disease causes electrolyte imbalances and fluid retention, making it difficult to maintain stable blood sugar levels. According to Dr Khirbat, medications used to manage diabetes may also need to be adjusted since the kidneys are less able to process and excrete drugs, increasing the risk of side effects.
“The interaction between kidney disease and diabetes forms a vicious cycle, making it essential for individuals with both conditions to closely manage their blood sugar, blood pressure, and kidney function to prevent further deterioration,” said Dr Khirbat.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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