If i am diabetic, is my kidney in danger of failing?

Yes: One of the potential complications of diabetes is nephropathy (kidney damage). Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney failure in the United States; however, good blood pressure and glucose control can help prevent diabetes-related kidney damage.

Yes: Diabetes damages the blood vessels and the kidneys are particularly vulnerable. Keep your diabetes under the best control you can and check your urine microalbumin according to your physician's recommendations.

Yes: Diabetics have a higher risk of kidney disease. Keeping the blood sugar and blood pressure under control may reduce the risk.

Yes: That is why we put patients on a medication called an ACE inhibitor to protect the kidneys. The kidney usually fails if the diabetes is not controlled.

Yes: Diabetic nephropathy is the most common cause of kidney failure in america. The likelihood of kidney failure is related to the duration and severity of diabetes.

Yes: Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney failure in the US. However patients who consistently control their blood sugars (as measured by the A1c test) significantly decrease their risk. Control of blood pressure is also essential.

Yes: But this is preventable with good control of blood sugars, blood pressure and cholesterol. Most of the time you are in the drivers seat in ensuring that your sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, by following you physician's recommendations and making educated food choices. Ace inhibitors (lisinopril etc.) help protect the kidney from diabetic damage even if blood pressure is not high.

Yes: Yes, a diabetic does carry an increased risk of kidney disease or failure. I would recommend monitoring and controlling diabetes through diet, exercise, and appropriate medication use. Controlling blood pressure is important as well - which may lead your physician to choose an ace/arb medication which could help protect the kidneys.