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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Does Diabetes And High BP Affect The Kidney?

How does diabetes and high blood pressure affect the kidney? does it cause shortness of oxygen? my mother had a quadruple heart bypass a few years back, has diabetes, high blood pressure and is having trouble breathing, she cant keep any food or fluids down she vomits every time and I am not sure what to do. she doesn t want to go to the hospital but I believe I should just take her. what do you think I should do? Please help
Sat, 22 Apr 2023
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney damage, also known as diabetic nephropathy and hypertensive nephropathy, respectively. High blood sugar levels in diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to decreased kidney function over time. Similarly, high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, causing the kidneys to work harder to filter waste from the blood.

Both diabetes and high blood pressure can lead to kidney disease, which can cause a range of symptoms including:
* Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face
* Fatigue or weakness
* Shortness of breath
* Difficulty sleeping
* Nausea and vomiting
* Loss of appetite
* Itching or dry skin
* High levels of protein in the urine
* High blood pressure

Shortness of breath is not a direct symptom of kidney disease, but it can be a sign of heart problems, which can be caused by uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure. Vomiting can also be a sign of kidney disease or other serious conditions, so it is important to seek medical attention if your mother is experiencing these symptoms.

It is important to encourage your mother to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as vomiting and difficulty keeping down food or fluids can quickly lead to dehydration and other complications.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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General & Family Physician Dr. Priyanka's  Response
Hi,

Both diabetes and high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys and affect their ability to function properly. Over time, this damage can lead to a condition called diabetic nephropathy or hypertensive nephropathy, which can cause kidney failure.

Shortness of oxygen is not a typical symptom of kidney damage caused by diabetes or high blood pressure. However, it is possible that your mother's breathing difficulties may be related to her heart condition, especially given her history of quadruple heart bypass surgery.

The symptoms you describe, including difficulty breathing and vomiting, are concerning and may indicate a serious medical condition. It is important to seek medical attention immediately, especially given your mother's history of heart disease and other chronic conditions.

If your mother is resistant to seeking medical attention, you can try to explain the severity of her symptoms and the potential risks of delaying treatment. If necessary, you may need to call for emergency medical services or take her to the hospital yourself. It is important to prioritize your mother's health and safety and to seek medical attention promptly in situations like these.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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How Does Diabetes And High BP Affect The Kidney?

Hi, Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney damage, also known as diabetic nephropathy and hypertensive nephropathy, respectively. High blood sugar levels in diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to decreased kidney function over time. Similarly, high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, causing the kidneys to work harder to filter waste from the blood. Both diabetes and high blood pressure can lead to kidney disease, which can cause a range of symptoms including: * Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face * Fatigue or weakness * Shortness of breath * Difficulty sleeping * Nausea and vomiting * Loss of appetite * Itching or dry skin * High levels of protein in the urine * High blood pressure Shortness of breath is not a direct symptom of kidney disease, but it can be a sign of heart problems, which can be caused by uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure. Vomiting can also be a sign of kidney disease or other serious conditions, so it is important to seek medical attention if your mother is experiencing these symptoms. It is important to encourage your mother to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as vomiting and difficulty keeping down food or fluids can quickly lead to dehydration and other complications. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician