Diabetic Nephropathy

Diabetic Nephropathy is a serious kidney-related complication of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste from the blood. If left untreated, it may progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or even kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation.

Signs & Symptoms

In the early stages, diabetic nephropathy may not cause noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, patients may experience:
  • Swelling in the feet, ankles, or around the eyes
  • Increased need to urinate, especially at night
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • High blood pressure

  • Protein in the urine (detected via lab tests)

Diagnostic Procedures

Diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy involves a combination of clinical assessments and tests, including:
  • Urine tests to detect protein (albumin) levels
  • Blood tests to evaluate kidney function (e.g., creatinine, eGFR)
  • Blood pressure monitoring, as hypertension often accompanies kidney damage
  • Imaging tests like ultrasound to assess kidney size and structure
  • Kidney biopsy in select cases to confirm diagnosis or assess severity

Why Choose Dr. Upal Sengupta?

With decades of expertise in managing kidney diseases and diabetes-related complications, Dr. Upal Sengupta offers advanced, personalized care for diabetic nephropathy. His patient-centric approach, in-depth knowledge of nephrology, and experience in kidney transplantation make him a trusted name in Kolkata and beyond. Dr. Sengupta is committed to early diagnosis, slowing disease progression, and improving patients’ quality of life through medical management, lifestyle modifications, and long-term follow-up.