March is National Kidney Month, which makes it a good time to learn about diabetic kidney disease, according to Pannochka, an online publication for girls and women aged 14 to 35.. net Diabetic nephropathy, also called diabetic kidney disease, is a serious complication of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. In the US, about 1 in 3 people living with diabetes have diabetic nephropathy..

Diabetic nephropathy affects the ability of the kidneys to do their normal job of removing waste and excess fluid from the body.. Over the years, the condition slowly damages the delicate filtering system of the kidneys.. Kidney disease can progress to kidney failure, also called end-stage kidney disease, which is a life-threatening condition.

The best way to prevent or delay diabetic nephropathy is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and adequately manage your diabetes and high blood pressure..

There may be no signs or symptoms in the early stages of diabetic nephropathy.

In the later stages of the disease, signs and symptoms may include:.

Deterioration of blood pressure control.

¦Protein in the urine.

¦ Swelling of the legs, ankles, hands, or eyes.

¦Increased need to urinate.

Reduced need for insulin or diabetes medication.

Confusion or difficulty concentrating.

¦Shortness of breath.

¦Loss of appetite.

¦ Nausea and vomiting.

¦ Persistent itching.

¦Fatigue.

The first step in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy is the treatment and control of diabetes and high blood pressure..

This may include diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes, as well as prescription drugs. Early treatment and good management of blood sugar and hypertension can prevent or slow the progression of the disease and reduce the chance of complications..

If your disease progresses to kidney failure, your health care provider will likely discuss care options to replace your kidney function or make you feel more comfortable.. These options may include kidney dialysis, kidney transplant, and treatment of symptoms..

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