Diabetic Nephropathy

Information for People with Diabetes and Kidney Disease

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Glomerulosclerosis

Glomerulosclerosis is scarring or hardening of the glomeruli. When the glomeruli are damaged they can no longer filter out wastes and fluid properly. They will also be unable to keep necessary substances like blood and protein in the body. Glomerulosclerosis can lead to End Stage Renal Disease in one to ten years. Types of kidney diseases that cause glomerulosclerosis include diabetes. Glomerulosclerosis can also be caused by infection or drug use.

Symptoms include:

Swelling of the body
Loss of appetite
Foamy urine
High blood pressure

Specific treatments for glomerulosclerosis depend on what is causing the kidney tissues to harden and scar. A biopsy (where a very small sample of your kidney tissue is removed for examination) may be required to determine the exact cause. Generally, treatment will include diet changes and medication.