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Kidney damage is one of the most common consequences of diabetes. Unfortunately, many patients miss the first signals. This is because kidney disease does not present with obvious signs. “In early-stage kidney disease, symptoms are usually minimal or vague, such as slight swelling, mild fatigue, or foamy urine due to protein leakage,” says Dr., Senior Consultant – Nephrology & Transplant Physician.
Early signs you should never ignore
According to Doctor, fluid retention is often the first red flag. “When your kidneys can’t get rid of extra fluid, it starts building up. Mild swelling around your feet or eyes is an early sign of kidney damage,” he says. Urine also gives many clues. “Foamy or bubbly urine means protein leakage. Frequent urination at night, dark or tea-coloured urine, or reduced urine output should not be ignored. If you see these signs, consult a kidney specialist before it gets worse.” Constant tiredness, weakness, or a heaviness in the lower back can also indicate early kidney strain. “Even slightly rising blood pressure should be taken seriously because kidneys play a key role in regulating it,” the nephrologist tells indianexpres.com.
But how can one be sure that the diabetes has now started affecting the kidneys? Dr. stresses the importance of routine screening. “A urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) is often the earliest indicator of kidney damage,” he says. “An eGFR blood test tells us how well the kidneys filter waste. Every diabetic should get both tests at least once a year.” Monitoring blood pressure is just as critical because “high BP both causes and worsens kidney disease.”
How early symptoms differ from advanced kidney failure
Many early symptoms may not feel “kidney-related,” which is why patients overlook them. “Loss of appetite, a metallic taste in the mouth, skin changes, trouble sleeping or unexplained morning nausea can all be linked to declining kidney function,” explains Kumar. He claims that many individuals believe that increased weariness is caused by diabetes rather than the kidneys.
The transition, however, from minor damage to advanced failure is clear. Symptoms are mild in early-stage kidney illness; nevertheless, as kidney function deteriorates, daily living becomes impaired. “Advanced kidney failure brings severe swelling, nausea or vomiting, breathlessness, persistent itching, muscle cramps, poor appetite and rising blood pressure,” according to Dr. Kumar. He goes on to say that toxin buildup can also impact the brain: “Confusion or difficulty concentrating can appear in the advanced stage.”
The doctor adds that there is no set period for renal function deterioration. For many diabetes patients, kidney loss occurs gradually over time. However, once apparent signs emerge, things can move quickly. “If swelling, shortness of breath or appetite loss appear, the decline may accelerate unless managed promptly.” The good news, he claims, is that early detection makes a significant difference. “Strict sugar control, blood pressure control and timely treatment can significantly slow or even halt progression,” says the nephrologist.
Source: IE
