DIABETES TYPE 2 AND YOU

AVOIDING DIALYSIS: KEYS TO KEEPING YOUR KIDNEYS

Damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys occurs in type 2 diabetes about the same time as you develop diabetic changes in your eyes. Since you had diabetes for 5-10 years before you were diagnosed, your kidneys may have been affected especially if you have had higher than normal blood sugars or high blood pressure. Blood pressure increases about 4 points per year - the same as cholesterol. If you have type 2 diabetes, then aske for a urine microalbumin test. If you are spilling microalbumin in the urine, then you need immediate treatment. If you smoke, STOP. Everything about diabetes is make worse by smoking. What do you ask for if you have a microalbumin in the urin. Ask for aggressive treatment for blood pressure, ACE inhibitor medications or ARB's (angiotensin receptor blockers). Both classes of medication help your kidneys and have few side effects. Maintain near normal blood sugar and eat a low protein diet, especially with vegetable proteins. Ask your healthcare provider for a microalbumin test.

The diabetes support group meets the second Monday of each month at 7 pm in our office. Everyone is welcome. There is no charge.

Timothy J. Gray, D.O.
Book-Of-The-Month-Club Author
Board Certified in Family Practice
Mountain View Medical Center
1909 Mountain View Lane Suite
Forest Grove, Oregon
503-359-4773