Kidney damage due to diabetes can be difficult. But did you know that there is a chance of recovery and you can regain your kidney health?

It may sound hard but actually it is not. You can reverse the kidney damage and you can start with some simple steps.

Curious about how to regain your kidney health? Mykare Health is here to help you understand how to achieve it.

How Does Diabetes Affect Kidney Health?

It is necessary to understand diabetes-related kidney health first. Only then can we tell you how to manage it.

So, here you go.

Diabetes poses a significant risk to various organs, with the kidneys being particularly vulnerable. Diabetes, whether it is type 1 or type 2, can lead to various types of complications, especially to kidney health.

Preventing It Through Lifestyle Modification

Here’s the first step you can take to prevent diabetes, which in turn helps in keeping your kidneys healthy - lifestyle modification.

• It is essential to maintain optimal blood sugar levels in preventing further complications of kidney function. A well-balanced diet is necessary to maintain proper kidney function. Choosing controlled portions and nutrient rich food is advisable. Ensure that you opt for whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which have a positive impact on both diabetes control and kidney function.

• Maintain regular physical activity for weight management and blood sugar control. It also promotes cardiovascular health, reducing the strain on the kidneys.

Regular Physical Activity

Physical activity plays an important role in reversing diabetes-related kidney damage. It enhances the insulin sensitivity, thus facilitating better glucose utilisation by cells and reducing the burden on kidneys. Exercise also maintains cardiovascular health, thus reducing the risk of kidney damage.

• Ensure that you do moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Include strength training exercises at least two days per week to improve muscle mass and metabolism.

• Explore activities such as yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics for those with joint concerns.

• Start with manageable durations and intensities, gradually increasing as fitness levels improve.

• Choose activities that bring joy and satisfaction.

Medication Management

It is necessary to maintain insulin levels in diabetes treatment, whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

How can you maintain it?

• Adhere to prescribed insulin for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels helps adjust insulin doses as needed.

• Oral medications, such as metformin, and sulfonylureas are common in type 2 diabetes management. Adhere to medication schedules.

Insulin Therapy

It is essential to maintain blood glucose levels to maintain the insulin doses. It varies with the individual. It prevents complications associated with diabetes.** Regular blood glucose testing provides valuable data for fine-tuning insulin regimens. Proper injection techniques, and ensuring the insulin is stored correctly, contribute to good treatments.**

Monitoring Via Regular Check-ups

Regular medical visits facilitate early detection of changes in kidney function, allowing for prompt intervention. Timely adjustments to treatment plans can impact any complications of kidney damage.

Kidney Function Tests

What are the kidney function tests?

What are their significance?

Let's find out:

- Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

GFR measures how efficiently the kidneys filter waste from the blood. A decline in GFR may indicate worsening kidney function. Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio This test measures the amount of albumin, a protein, in the urine relative to creatinine, a waste product.

- Elevated levels may signify kidney damage.

Lifestyle modifications and medications may be tailored based on albumin-to-creatinine ratio results.

Dietary Supplements

What is the role of dietary supplements in preventing kidney related issues?

Supplements aim to address specific nutrients needs that may be challenging to meet through dietary sources alone. Individuals should consult with their healthcare provider for any treatment plan.

• Dosages and potential interactions with medications should be carefully considered.

• Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation in the kidneys and improve lipid profiles.

• Vitamin D supplementation may support overall kidney function and mitigate the risk of complications.

Significance of Proper Hydration

Does adequate water intake really help in maintaining kidney functions?

Ensure to have adequate water intake as it maintains a sufficient volume of urine, thus helping kidneys in filtering and eliminating waste products from the blood. Proper hydration helps in removal of toxins and metabolic byproducts, thus reducing the strain on kidneys. Adequate hydration reduces the likelihood of kidney stone formation and any kind of urinary tract infections. If any individual with diabetes requires any type of adjustment to their hydration plans, he should consult a good healthcare provider. The individual can consume water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables and enhance his overall well-being.

Stress Management

Focus on being present at the moment, reduce your anxieties and promote relaxation. This can be achieved by following any physical exercise, breathing techniques, yoga, meditation, yoga nidra and various counselling sessions. You can try what really works for you.

Surgical Interventions

Kidney transplantation may be required which involves replacing a damaged kidney with a healthy one from a living or deceased donor. Some medications may be provided by your doctor to prevent the rejection of the transplant kidney. Surgery such as Bariatric surgery may be recommended.

Patient Education and Support

It is very important for the patient to have all the knowledge regarding kidney issues as it may help him to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but how?

• Knowing the risk factors, symptoms, of kidney damage makes the individuals take the required measures.

• Educating patients about the importance of medication adherence in diabetes and kidney health is crucial.

• Understanding the purpose, dosage, and its side effects is necessary for the patient.

• Patients are encouraged to actively participate in their care by asking questions, and expressing their needs.