Diabetes-related kidney disease can worsen over time, potentially leading to kidney failure. You may start to experience a range of symptoms, including lower back pain, fatigue, and nausea or vomiting.
If you’re managing kidney disease, it’s important to keep track of any changes in your symptoms. Some signs could indicate that your condition is getting worse.
Recognizing new or unusual symptoms, monitoring existing ones, and sharing this information with your healthcare provider are all crucial for creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
If you’re worried that your kidney disease may be progressing, here’s what you should know about the symptoms to watch for, potential secondary conditions, and how to keep track of your symptoms to help manage your health.
What Is Diabetes-Related Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys are damaged and can no longer effectively filter waste from the blood. This dysfunction can lead to a variety of health complications.
Healthy kidneys play a key role in waste elimination, regulating blood pressure, supporting bone health, and balancing electrolytes.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the term for kidney disease that worsens over time. Diabetes—whether type 1 or type 2—is the leading cause of kidney failure, so people with diabetes should be especially vigilant about monitoring their symptoms if diagnosed with CKD.
Stages of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease progresses in five stages, which eventually lead to kidney failure:
Early Stages (1-3): In these stages, your kidneys can still filter waste from the blood, but as CKD advances, symptoms may begin to appear.
Later Stages (4-5): The kidneys work harder to filter the blood or may fail to do so effectively. Symptoms become more pronounced, and complications such as anemia or metabolic acidosis might develop.
Kidney Failure: At this stage, kidney function is severely impaired, with the kidneys working at 15% capacity or less, marking the most serious phase of kidney disease.
Symptoms of Worsening Kidney Disease
If kidney disease is getting worse, several symptoms may appear. These symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly, and it’s important to stay alert.
Look for these signs:
Lower back or flank pain
Persistent fatigue or weakness
Swelling, especially in the hands, feet, or around the eyes
Unpleasant taste in your mouth or a lack of appetite
Feeling unusually cold
Trouble concentrating
Shortness of breath
Itchy skin
Muscle cramps in hands and legs
Nausea and vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss what they might mean for your condition.
Can Worsening Kidney Disease Lead to Other Health Issues?
Yes, worsening kidney disease can contribute to the development of secondary conditions. Some common ones include:
Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin.
Mineral and Bone Disorder: Imbalances in minerals like calcium and phosphate, as well as hormones regulating these minerals, can cause bone pain or joint discomfort. Symptoms may not always be noticeable.
Fluid Overload: If the kidneys fail to manage fluid balance, excess fluid can accumulate, leading to swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen, weight gain, and difficulty breathing.
Metabolic Acidosis: This condition arises when acid builds up in the body due to impaired kidney function. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite.
Make sure to bring up any new or worsening symptoms with your doctor, especially if you suspect a secondary condition is developing.
How to Monitor and Track Your Symptoms
Keeping track of your symptoms is essential for managing kidney disease effectively. Here’s how you can stay on top of things:
Track Symptoms: Record any changes or new symptoms you experience. Be sure to note the date, time, severity, and any potential triggers or factors that make symptoms better or worse.
Monitor Test Results: Keep track of important lab results, such as eGFR and urine albumin levels. These can help you and your doctor understand how your kidney disease is progressing.
Use Smartphone Apps: There are several apps designed to help track symptoms and share reports directly with your doctor. Many apps also allow you to store and organize your data.
Keep Copies of Test Results: Whether in physical or electronic form, save copies of all your test results and doctor’s notes. This will help you stay organized and ensure you have the information you need for your appointments.
Scan and Store Paperwork: If you receive any hard copies of medical records, scan them and store them in a digital folder. This makes it easier to access them later, share with your healthcare provider, or bring to appointments.
Conclusion
Although a kidney disease diagnosis can feel overwhelming, working with your doctor on a treatment plan can help you manage your condition. This plan may include dietary changes, medication, exercise, and regular symptom monitoring to address any worsening signs.
By understanding the symptoms of worsening kidney disease and consistently tracking your health, you can improve communication with your healthcare team and take proactive steps to manage your condition.