Diabetics

Too much sugar in the blood for a long time causes diabetes problems.This high blood sugar can damage many parts of the body, such as the kidneys, heart, and blood vessels. Diabetes problems can be scary, but there is a lot you can do to prevent them or slow them down.

Keep your blood sugar as close to normal as you can. Ask your doctor what blood sugar numbers are healthy for you.

Keep your blood pressure below 130/85 to help prevent kidney damage. Blood pressure is written with two numbers separated by a slash. For Ask your doctor what numbers are best for you. If you take blood pressure pills, take them as your doctor tells you. Keeping your blood pressure under control will also slow damage to your eyes, heart, and blood vessels.

Keep your blood pressure below 130/85

Follow the healthy eating plan you work out with your doctor or dietitian. Change your meal plan as your doctor and dietitian suggest. They might suggest you eat less protein, sodium, and potassium.

Have your kidneys checked at least once a year by having your urine tested for small amounts of protein.

Have any other kidney tests that your doctor thinks you need.

Pain or burning when you urinate

Frequent urge to go to the bathroom

Urine that looks cloudy or reddish

Fever or a shaky feeling

Pain in your back or on your side below your ribs.

While you may not be able to completely protect your kidneys from the effects of diabetes, the following steps will help your kidneys stay as healthy as possible:

• Keep control of your blood sugar levels with the help of your doctor or pharmacist.


• Ask your doctor about regular urine and blood tests to monitor your kidney function.


• Check your blood pressure regularly - your doctor can advise you on your "target" blood pressure and how often to check.


• Eat a healthy diet - your doctor or dietitian can advise you on the best foods for you to choose or avoid.
• Try to quit smoking.


• Exercise regularly.