What is diabetic nephropathy?
A person with diabetic nephropathy has damage to the kidneys caused by long-standing diabetes. Diabetes damages the blood vessels in the kidneys. Eventually, the kidneys are unable to filter waste from the bloodstream, and unable to remove excess fluid from the body. Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney failure in the US.

What are the symptoms of diabetic nephropathy?
Symptoms of diabetic nephropathy include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, headaches, itching, excessive fatigue, facial swelling, leg swelling, swollen feet, and weight gain.

How does the doctor treat diabetic nephropathy?
Treatment for diabetic nephropathy may include insulin, oral hypoglycemic medications, weight loss, ACE inhibitor medications, angiotensin receptor blockers, and a kidney diet. Kidney dialysis or kidney transplant may be options for end stage renal disease.