Diabetes is the commonest reason for chronic kidney failure. Longstanding uncontrolled diabetes harms blood vessels within the kidney. Microalbuminuria (leakage of small quantities in urine) is the earliest sign of kidney damage. Protein leakage increases gradually following which hypertension and renal failure may develop. Dialysis and kidney transplantation can be safely performed in diabetics with kidney failure.

Dr. R Balasubramaniyam MBBS, DNB (Gen.Med), DNB (Neph), Chief Nephrologist, Kauvery Hospital

Watch his video interview on diabetes & the kidney.