Diabetes Is the Biggest Cause of Kidney Disease. Guide for Patients Wellsun Medicity

 Diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure.

 You can protect your kidneys with annual tests (UACR & eGFR), tight sugar and BP control, and kidney‑protective medicines.

 If you have diabetes, book a kidney check at Wellsun Medicity in Lucknow—early action prevents irreversible damage.

 What Is Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD)?

Diabetic kidney disease—also called diabetic nephropathy—is kidney damage caused by long‑term high blood sugar. Over time, the kidneys’ filters (glomeruli) become leaky, allowing protein to spill into urine (albuminuria) and gradually reducing kidney function (eGFR).

Why it matters: DKD often has no symptoms in early stages. By the time swelling, fatigue, or poor appetite appear,  damage can be advanced. Screening is essential.

Step‑by‑Step: How to Protect Your Kidneys If You Have Diabetes

Step 1: Know Your Risk

You are at higher risk if you:

Have type 1 or type 2 diabetes (especially >5–10 years),

Have high blood pressure, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease,

Smoke or have heart disease.

Step 2: Get the Right Tests—Every Year (or More Often)

Ask for these two simple tests:

Urine Albumin‑to‑Creatinine Ratio (UACR): detects protein leakage.

Target: < 30 mg/g (normal to mildly increased).

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): blood test that estimates kidney filtering capacity.

Target: ≥ 90 mL/min/1.73 m² is considered normal; lower values indicate CKD stages.

If UACR is ≥30 mg/g or eGFR <60, you likely have CKD and need a structured plan.

Step 3: Hit Your Sugar Targets

HbA1c: most adults aim for around 7% (your doctor may individualize).

Use your prescribed plan (diet, exercise, metformin/insulin/other agents).

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) or regular SMBG helps you stay in range.

Step 4: Control Your Blood Pressure

Goal: typically <130/80 mmHg (personalized by your clinician).

If albuminuria is present, medicines like ACE inhibitors or ARBs are commonly used because they protect kidneys beyond BP control. 

Step 5: Ask About Kidney‑Protective Medicines

With your doctor, discuss: 

ACE inhibitor or ARB (if albuminuria ≥30 mg/g), titrated to the max tolerated dose.

SGLT2 inhibitors (for many people with type 2 diabetes and CKD) to slow progression.

Finerenone (a non‑steroidal MRA) may be considered in persistent albuminuria despite ACEi/ARB.

Never start/stop these without medical advice; your labs (potassium, eGFR) need monitoring.

Step 6: Lifestyle That Loves Your Kidneys

Nutritious plate: more veggies, whole grains, lean proteins; limit salt; manage calories.

Move daily: aim for 150 minutes/week of moderate activity (as advised).

Quit smoking and maintain a healthy weight.

Sleep & stress: prioritize 7–8 hours sleep; manage stress to avoid glucose spikes.

 Step 7: Monitor, Track, Repeat

Re‑check UACR & eGFR at least annually; every 3–6 months if abnormal.

Keep a personal record of BP, HbA1c, medications, and lab trends. 

Step 8: See a Nephrologist Early

Consult a kidney specialist if you have:

UACR ≥30 mg/g on repeat testing,

eGFR <60, rising creatinine, or a rapid fall in eGFR,

Resistant hypertension, persistent swelling, or electrolyte issues,

Young age with kidney findings or uncertain cause.

Understanding Stages of CKD (Quick Table)

Stage     eGFR (mL/min/1.73 m²)                What it means

G1          ≥90 (with evidence of damage) Normal filtration with signs of kidney injury (e.g., albuminuria)

G2          60–89    Mildly decreased function

G3a        45–59    Mild‑to‑moderate decrease

G3b        30–44    Moderate‑to‑severe decrease

G4          15–29    Severe decrease

G5          <15         Kidney failure; dialysis/transplant may be required

Albuminuria categories:

A1: <30 mg/g • A2: 30–300 mg/g • A3: >300 mg/g

Signs & Symptoms (Often Late)

Foamy urine, swelling of ankles/face, frequent nighttime urination, fatigue, poor appetite, nausea, itching, muscle cramps.

Note: Many people feel normal until advanced stages—don’t wait for symptoms. 

Treatment Pathway at Wellsun Medicity (Lucknow)

At Wellsun Medicity, our multidisciplinary team provides:

Early detection & risk assessment (UACR, eGFR, BP, HbA1c, lipid profile).

Personalized diabetes management (endocrinology + dietetics).

Kidney‑protective therapy optimization (ACEi/ARB, SGLT2i, MRA when appropriate). 

Lifestyle & nutrition counseling for kidney‑smart living.

Advanced nephrology care including dialysis planning and transplant coordination when needed.

Call to Action: If you have diabetes, book your annual kidney check at Wellsun Medicity, Lucknow. Early control = long‑term kidney protection.