4 signs of kidney disease due to excess sugar consumption
Most people enjoy munching on sugary foods like cookies and indulge in fizzy drinks throughout the year. While consuming these in moderation might be alright, excess sugar intake can lead to diabetes. People with diabetes may develop a subtype of the disease known as diabetic nephropathy, which affects the kidneys. Here are four signs associated with kidney problems caused due to diabetes. These signs may require an expert’s intervention who will recommend a treatment plan.
Frequent urination (Polyuria)
One of the symptoms an individual with diabetic nephropathy may experience is frequent urination. When the blood sugar levels are very high, the kidneys may not be able to keep up with the amount of glucose and allow some of it to go into the urine. Therefore, the individual may have the urge to urinate often, even at night.
Loss of body mass
An individual may lose a couple of pounds due to multiple factors, including regular exercise. However, if this happens without any effort, they might have diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes may have extra glucose circulating in the body, which goes into their urine. Therefore, they may lose pounds even when they eat more to satisfy their hunger. The symptom must be checked by an expert immediately.
Regular infections
It is common to experience bacterial, yeast, or fungal infection at some point in one’s life. However, someone with type 2 diabetes might be more prone to infections. The kidneys may not be able to filter blood that is excessively high in sugar. As a result, the glucose may mix with urine and trigger urinary tract and yeast infections. One may also be prone to skin infections due to poor kidney function.
Fatigue
The body breaks down food into simple sugars, and the cells use insulin to absorb the glucose from the blood, which is used for energy. However, in people with diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, which means the body cannot use it effectively, resulting in excess glucose in the blood. As a result, one may develop symptoms such as fatigue and weakness. One may also face complications of diabetes, such as diabetic nephropathy, which may worsen fatigue.