People living with diabetes and high blood pressure are at a significantly higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). According to medical experts, uncontrolled blood sugar and hypertension can slowly damage kidney function over time, often without noticeable early symptoms.

To understand this connection better, TV9 spoke with Dr. Anish Nanda, Consultant Nephrologist at Kailash Hospital, Noida, who explained how kidney disease develops and what warning signs patients should not ignore.

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. As kidney function declines, toxins begin to accumulate in the body, leading to serious health complications.

In advanced stages, patients may require dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival.

High-Risk Groups

Doctors say the risk of kidney disease increases significantly in:

• People with type 2 diabetes

• Patients with high blood pressure

• Individuals with uncontrolled blood sugar levels for a long time

• Patients with both diabetes and hypertension

Among these, type 2 diabetes is considered one of the leading causes of kidney damage.

Early Warning Signs of Kidney Damage

Experts warn that kidney disease often progresses silently. However, some early symptoms may include:

• Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs

• Changes in urination patterns

• Presence of protein in urine

• Fatigue and weakness

• Loss of appetite

Swelling in the lower limbs and urinary abnormalities are often among the first noticeable signs.

Urine Changes: A Key Indicator

One of the earliest indicators of diabetic kidney disease is the presence of protein in urine. Doctors recommend regular urine tests, especially a microalbumin test, to detect kidney damage at an early stage.

Early detection can help slow the progression of the disease and prevent severe complications.

Why Regular Testing Is Important

For people with diabetes and hypertension, routine monitoring is essential. Experts recommend:

• Blood sugar testing regularly

• Kidney function tests every 6 months

• Urine microalbumin screening

• Regular blood pressure monitoring

Detecting kidney issues early can make treatment more effective.

Prevention and Management

Although kidney damage cannot always be reversed, its progression can often be slowed with proper care. Doctors highlight that newer medications and treatments can help delay kidney failure and reduce the need for dialysis.

Preventive steps include:

• Controlling blood sugar levels

• Managing blood pressure effectively

• Following a kidney-friendly diet

• Staying physically active

• Avoiding self-medication and unnecessary painkillers

Expert Advice

According to specialists, patients should not wait for severe symptoms to appear. By the time kidney disease reaches advanced stages, treatment options may be limited to dialysis or transplant.

Early diagnosis, regular check-ups, and lifestyle changes play a crucial role in protecting kidney health.

Key Takeaway

Diabetes and high blood pressure are major contributors to kidney disease. Symptoms such as swelling in the feet and changes in urine should not be ignored. Regular testing and timely medical care can significantly reduce the risk of serious kidney damage.