What Happens to Your Kidneys with a Consistently High A1C?

What Happens to Your Kidneys with a Consistently High A1C?

When you have a consistently high A1C, it's not just your blood sugar levels that are affected – it's your entire body. One of the most critical organs impacted by high blood sugar is your kidneys. Here, we'll explore what happens to your kidneys when your A1C remains high.

Diabetic Nephropathy: The Leading Cause of Kidney Disease

Diabetic nephropathy, also known as diabetic kidney disease (DKD), is a leading cause of kidney disease worldwide. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in your kidneys over time. This damage can impair your kidneys' ability to filter waste and excess fluids from your blood, leading to a range of complications.

How High Blood Sugar Damages Kidneys

High blood sugar can damage your kidneys in several ways:

  1. Blood Vessel Damage: High blood sugar can cause inflammation in the blood vessels of your kidneys, leading to damage and scarring over time.
  2. Kidney Damage: The damage caused by high blood sugar can impair your kidneys' ability to filter waste and excess fluids from your blood.
  3. Nerve Damage: High blood sugar can cause nerve damage in your kidneys, leading to pain and discomfort.
  4. Kidney Failure: Prolonged exposure to high blood sugar can lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Symptoms of Diabetic Nephropathy

While diabetic nephropathy often shows no symptoms in its early stages, there are several warning signs to look out for:

  1. Swelling in Your Legs and Feet: High blood pressure and fluid buildup can cause swelling in your legs and feet.
  2. Fatigue: Kidney damage can lead to fatigue and weakness.
  3. Pain in Your Back: Kidney damage can cause pain in your back, side, or lower abdomen.
  4. Frequent Urination: High blood sugar can cause your kidneys to work harder, leading to more frequent urination.

Preventing Diabetic Nephropathy

While there is no cure for diabetic nephropathy, there are several steps you can take to prevent it:

  1. Maintain a Healthy Blood Sugar Level: Keeping your A1C within a healthy range can reduce your risk of developing diabetic nephropathy.
  2. Manage Your Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can exacerbate kidney damage, so it's essential to manage your blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication.
  3. Monitor Your Kidney Function: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help detect any kidney damage early on.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help your kidneys function properly.

Conclusion

A consistently high A1C can have serious consequences for your kidneys. Diabetic nephropathy is a leading cause of kidney disease worldwide, and high blood sugar can damage your kidneys' ability to filter waste and excess fluids from your blood. While there is no cure for diabetic nephropathy, maintaining a healthy blood sugar level, managing your blood pressure, monitoring your kidney function, and staying hydrated can help prevent it. By taking proactive steps, you can reduce your risk of developing diabetic nephropathy and protect your kidneys for years to come.