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Diabetes and Kidney Health: Why Kidney Tests Matter

Diabetes and Kidney Health: Why Kidney Tests Matter

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Diabetes and Kidney Health: Why Kidney Tests Matter

Your kidneys clean your blood every day. They remove waste and extra fluids from your body. They also help with your blood pressure.

If you have diabetes, your kidneys may need extra care. High blood sugar can damage your kidneys over time. This can lead to kidney disease.

The good news is that regular tests can help find problems early.

How Diabetes Affects the Kidneys

Think of your kidneys like a coffee filter. Blood flows through tiny filters inside your kidneys. These filters get rid of waste from your body.

High blood sugar can damage these filters. When that happens, waste can stay in your body.

Kidney damage often happens slowly. You may not notice it at first. This is why kidney tests are important if you have diabetes.

Kidney Tests for those with Diabetes
Your doctor may ask you to get a kidney test each year. These tests are easy and fast.

  • Urine Tests checks for protein in your urine. Protein may be a sign of kidney damage.
  • Blood tests help see how well your kidneys clean your blood.

Your doctor may also check your blood pressure. High blood pressure can make kidney disease worse.

Signs of Kidney Problems
Kidney disease may not cause symptoms early. But as time goes on, you may notice:

  • Swelling in your feet or ankles
  • Feeling very tired
  • Trouble focusing
  • Changes in how often you urinate

If you see these changes, talk to your doctor right away.

How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy
Some ways that you can stay healthy are:

  • Check your blood sugar often.
  • Take your medicines like your doctor tells you.
  • Keep your blood pressure in a healthy range.
  • Eat balanced meals.
  • Stay active.
  • Do not skip yearly tests.

Talk With Your Doctor
Kidney tests can help find problems early. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor about getting tested at your next visit.

Need Help Finding a Doctor?
If you do not have a doctor or you need help finding one, we are here to help. Call us today.

  • CHIP/STAR Members: 713.295.2294 or 1.888.760.2600 (TTY 7-1-1)
  • STAR+PLUS Members: 713.295.2300 or 1.888.435.2850 (TTY 7-1-1)
  • Marketplace Members: 713.295.6704 or 1.855.315.5386 (TTY 7-1-1)
  • Medicare (D-SNP) Members: 713.295.5007 or 1.833.276.8306 (TTY 7-1-1)

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