Diabetes and CKD

If you have both conditions, it’s important to manage them together. The good news is that many of the steps you take to control diabetes will also help protect your kidneys, and vice versa. This is the case for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

How are diabetes and CKD connected?

When blood sugar levels stay high over time, this can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys. This makes it harder for your kidneys to filter waste properly.

At the same time, if your kidneys aren’t working well, it becomes harder for your body to manage blood sugar and blood pressure. This can create a cycle where one condition affects the other.

What are the risks?

Having both conditions increases your risk of:

• Faster decline in kidney function
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease or stroke
• Nerve damage
• Needing dialysis in the later stages of CKD

That’s why regular check-ups and day-to-day monitoring are so important.

How to manage both conditions together

The goal is to keep your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol within target ranges. You can do this by:

• Taking your medicines as prescribed: This may include medicines for diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet: Choose whole foods, limit salt, and watch your portion sizes. A kidney-friendly diet can be adapted for diabetes. Ask a dietitian for advice.
• Staying active: Exercise helps control blood sugar, supports kidney health, and lowers blood pressure.
• Getting regular check-ups: This includes HbA1c tests (blood sugar), eGFR (kidney function), and urine tests for protein.
• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol: These can both worsen complications in the long term.

What should I keep an eye on?

• Blood sugar readings: If you have been asked to check these at home and they rise more often, let your healthcare team know
• Swelling in your feet or ankles: This could be a sign of fluid buildup
• Changes in urination: Like going more often at night or seeing foam in your urine
• Feeling more tired than usual: This might suggest worsening kidney function

If you notice changes, speak to your GP, nurse or diabetes team. Catching problems early can help keep both conditions under control.