Diabetes and chronic kidney disease: what to know

High glucose can damage the small blood vessels that filter blood, while high blood pressure can add further strain. Early kidney changes may cause no obvious symptoms. Later, some people notice swelling, tiredness, changes in urination, itchy skin, nausea, or reduced appetite. These symptoms have many possible causes and do not confirm kidney disease. Testing usually looks for protein in urine and measures kidney filtering with a blood test.

Attend urine and blood monitoring even when you feel well. Take prescribed glucose and blood-pressure medicines consistently, and ask before using anti-inflammatory painkillers or herbal supplements. Follow the eating, fluid, and salt advice suited to your kidney function rather than adopting a generic diet. Keep blood pressure and glucose records if requested, avoid smoking, and discuss activity that is safe for you. Your clinician may refer you to a kidney specialist if results change or disease is advanced.

Seek prompt medical advice for new swelling, much less urine, breathlessness, persistent vomiting, confusion, or rapidly worsening weakness. Urgent help is needed for severe breathlessness, chest pain, or sudden confusion. Report blood in urine, painful urination, or a sudden change in glucose control so another problem can be considered.

What do my urine protein and kidney blood tests show? How often should they be repeated? Which painkillers and supplements should I avoid? Do my diabetes or blood-pressure medicines need review? What symptoms should prompt urgent contact?