On this American Diabetes Association Diabetes Alert Day^® we would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge those who live with diabetes. Diabetes can have a multitude of effects on the body and can require diligence and awareness to keep the potential differing manifestations in check. 

One result of diabetes mellitus some may not be aware of is renal (kidney) disease. These symptoms can include worsening blood pressure control, protein in the urine, swelling of feet, ankles, hands or eyes, increased need to urinate, reduced need for insulin or diabetes medicine, confusion or difficulty concentrating, shortness of breath, loss of appetite.

Over time, the high levels of sugar in the blood damage the millions of tiny filtering units within each kidney. This can eventually lead to kidney failure. When diagnosed early, it may be possible to stop diabetic kidney disease and fix the damage. If the disease continues, however, the damage may not be reversible. 

There are measures people with diabetes can take to try to manage the impact it has on their kidney.  These include controlling your blood sugar, regulating your blood pressure which may include taking angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) or angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) as prescribed by your health care provider (HCP), limiting the amount of protein you eat and promptly reporting to your HCP any difficulty passing urine. Some may opt to check the protein in their urine through at home dipsticks which can be purchased in stores or  online.

Another consideration may be participating in a clinical trial focusing on kidney disease in those with diabetes. At Leapcure we assist with connecting people with a wide variety of clinical study opportunities. Ask your HCP if you may benefit from being in a research study.Part of the mission of American Diabetes Association Diabetes Alert Day^® is to increase awareness. If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be at risk for diabetes, take this quick and simple Diabetes Risk Test. It will only take a minute or two and may provide insight to help you and those you care about live a healthier lifestyle for years to come.