Diabetes and kidney pain are often linked, as the kidneys are responsible for cleansing a person’s blood. The small organs are about the size of a fist and resemble kidney beans. Tiny units inside the kidneys, called nephrons, tubules, and glomeruli cleanse approximately two hundred quarts of blood per day and out of it, remove about two quarts of excess water and waste. These fluids are then processed through the ureters into the bladder where it waits to be excreted through the urine.
When a diabetic has an extreme blood glucose level, the excess sugar builds up. This abundance of sugar damages the nephrons and inhibits the kidneys from functioning. The process isreferred to as diabetic nephropathy and can be very dangerous. Without the ability to secrete water and waste, these materials build up inside the body. They then act like toxins, which can cause intense diabetes kidney pain.
Diabetes and Kidney Pain – Symptoms
Signs ofdiabetes and kidney painare closely related to functions of the bladder. They may include needing to go to the bathroom often or pain and burning while urinating. The urine itself may also be compromised. When the kidneys are unable to filter out substances, they may release toxins into the urine, which cause the urine to have a cloudy or reddish appearance.
These symptoms also coincide with pain that is located in the lower back. As the kidneys are located just beneath the rib cage toward the posterior of the body, these tender areas in the back should signal that the kidneys are dysfunctional. When any of these symptoms are present, it is vital to consult a physician immediately. Receiving urgent care can reduce further damage to the kidneys.
Diabetes and Kidney Pain – How to Keep Kidneys Healthy
The first step in eliminating diabetes kidney pain is to protect the health of the kidneys. Diabetics should always strive to keep their blood glucose levels as in a normal range. Mismanagement of glucose levels can lead to sever problems and issue with the kidneys is no exception. Eating a healthy diet that is nutrient and fiber rich, without artery clogging saturated fats is vital to those with diabetes. Reducing the amount of proteins and animals fats can help to reduce cholesterol and will make the kidney’s job much simpler.
In addition to monitoring and maintaining sugar levels, individuals should also take the same care with their blood pressure. A normal blood pressure range is 130/70 or below. This range can be achieved by following the diet regimen, getting plenty of exercise, and refraining from drinking and smoking.
Doctor visits to perform kidney tests should be scheduled at least annually to check for urinary albumin and creatine levels. Urinary albumin is tested to ensure that the urine does not contain protein, while the creatine tests for glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which measures the function of the kidneys. Both tests will measure how well the kidneys are functioning and will tell a doctor if further action is needed.
As soon as an issue with either the bladder or kidneys is suspected, the diabetic should see their doctor immediately. Waiting to see if the problem goes away will only lead to further complications and kidney damage. Using pain relievers, like aspirin and Tylenol, should also be infrequent, unless they are needed to treat other conditions, like heart disease. These substances are hard for the kidneys to filter and may cause damage. If pain is a regular problem, a doctor can recommend other ways to find relief.
Related articles: Diabetes Vibration |
