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Diabetic kidney disease

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Diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (sometimes called diabetic nephropathy) is damage to your kidneys caused by diabetes.

The kidneys have many tiny blood vessels that filter waste from your blood. High blood sugar from diabetes can destroy these blood vessels. Over time, the kidneys don't work as well and may stop working completely. This is called kidney failure.

Diabetic kidney disease is treated with medicine to slow or prevent further kidney damage. It can often be prevented by keeping blood sugar levels within a target range.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.