### How Diabetes and Hypertension Affect Kidney Health Diabetes and high blood pressure (hypertension) can significantly impact kidney health. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, maintaining a balance of electrolytes, and producing hormones that regulate blood pressure and red blood cell production. When blood sugar levels are high due to diabetes, it can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney injury. This injury can cause hypertension, which further damages the kidneys by increasing pressure in the blood vessels. ### Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often presents with vague and nonspecific symptoms, making it hard to detect early. Common symptoms include: - Changes in urination (increased or decreased urinary output) - Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite) - Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet - Fatigue and weakness - Difficulty concentrating - High blood pressure - Anemia ### Managing CKD Managing diabetes and hypertension is crucial in lowering the risk of developing CKD. This includes maintaining blood sugar levels between 80 to 130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals. Blood pressure should be kept below 140/90 mm Hg. Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can also help. Avoiding smoking and monitoring the use of over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and naproxen is advisable. ### Medications Certain medications can help manage CKD. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) can lower blood pressure in the kidneys and prevent protein leakage. These medications can reduce the risk of kidney failure requiring dialysis.