Diabetics Cautioned: Protect Your Kidneys

Filed in archive Information on July 31, 2006

Diabetics are especially at risk for potentially deadly kidney failure. Often, this condition seems to go hand-in-hand with hypertension, another health condition often experienced by diabetics.

This site offers a primer on protecting your kidneys, and the things you need to look out for.

In patients with diabetes different types of medications are used to treat Blood glucose levels, including oral medications and insulin. It is important to keep glucose levels as close to normal as possible. The recommended levels are below 130 mg/dL in the morning and 180 mg/dL after meals. The hemoglobin A1c blood test evaluates how well you are controlling your blood glucose levels over time. This is done every 3 to 6 months. Good control is indicated by a test result below 7%.

In patients with diabetes and hypertension, blood pressure should be less than 130/80 mm Hg. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II (AII) receptor blockers are types of medications used to lower blood pressure and help protect kidney function. A diuretic may also be added (to help rid the body of excess water and salt).

If you have experienced high blood pressure or are diabetic, it's imperative that you pay close attention to the health of your kidneys. Please consider the advice this article offers, and stay healthy!