Failure to manage hypertension can expedite the progression towards end-stage diabetic nephropathy, says Diabetologist Dr Neeta Shah.

MUMBAI, Nov 13 (The CONNECT) – Diabetes accounts for 80% of kidney failure cases, doctors say.

Diabetes has become an alarming epidemic in India, with the country witnessing a steep rise in the number of cases. The disease has taken a toll on both rural and urban populations, affecting people across all age groups

Diabetes is one of the various diseases caused by a changed lifestyle. Diabetes affects various organs of the body like heart, eyes. Also, diabetes impairs kidney function. As much as 80 percent of patients with kidney disease have a history of diabetes.

Dr Bhavik Saglani, Diabetologist, Apollo Spectra Mumbai said diabetes accounts for 80% of kidney failure cases. When uncontrolled or poorly managed can lead to damage to the blood vessels and nerves of the kidneys.

The final stage of nephropathy is known as kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). ESRD is commonly caused by diabetes. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to diabetic nephropathy, although type 1 has a higher likelihood of progressing to ESRD. Control diabetes through proper nutrition, regular exercise, blood sugar management, maintaining a healthy weight, and ultimately preventing the need for a kidney transplant.

The high levels of glucose in the blood associated with diabetes can damage the delicate filtering system in the kidneys over time and impair kidney function. Many diabetic patients come for treatment every month. About 25 to 30 of these patients have kidney problems due to diabetes. High glucose levels in individuals with diabetes can trigger inflammation in the kidneys. This chronic inflammation contributes significantly to kidney damage and eventually leads to kidney failure. Maintaining proper control of blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and medication is crucial for reducing this risk, Dr Saglani said.

This rapid increase can be attributed to various factors, including sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, and genetic predisposition. Lack of physical activity combined with overconsumption of fatty and sugary foods has created a perfect storm for diabetes to flourish. The convenience of fast food options and the availability of processed snacks have further aggravated this crisis.

Diabetes leads to life-threatening complications. Cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks and strokes, neuropathy, numbness and tingling sensations, vision problems, or even blindness.  Similarly, kidney damage known as diabetic nephropathy is another complication of diabetes that arises when uncontrolled glucose levels harm the tiny filtering units within the kidneys.

“Diabetic nephropathy invites hypertension. As kidney disease advances, changes in renal structure often lead to an elevation in blood pressure levels,” Dr Neeta Shah, Diabetologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital, said.

Failure to manage hypertension can expedite the progression towards end-stage diabetic nephropathy. During the initial phases of diabetic nephropathy, symptoms may not manifest. However, as the condition progresses, individuals may experience challenges in controlling high blood pressure. Swelling in various body parts such as feet, ankles, hands or eyes may occur. Other symptoms include foamy urine, confusion or cognitive difficulties, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, itching sensations as well as tiredness and weakness, Dr Shah said. 

One may also require dialysis and ultimately kidney transplant to improve the quality of life. Almost half of patients coming to OPD are diagnosed with nephropathy, out of this around 20 precent have ESRD those who have uncontrolled Diabetes and Hypertenson progress to ESRD much Earlier.Proper glycemic control through regular monitoring and appropriate medication helps prevent high glucose levels that contribute to renal damage. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a balanced diet low in added sugars, regular kidney health checkups, and engaging in physical activity plays a vital role in mitigating both diabetes and its complications like kidney disease, Dr Shah added.

Raghavendra Rao, Chief Distribution Officer, Future Generali India Insurance Company Ltd, said diabetes is a silent global epidemic that requires our collective awareness and action. “On this World Diabetes Day, let us strive to spread knowledge, compassion, and support, not only to manage this condition but to empower lives with healthier choices like regular exercise and healthy diet. Together, we can ensure a more vibrant and healthier future for everyone, with knowledge and insurance standing by our side,” Rao said.