Question

A 22 y/o patient with diabetic nephropathy says, "I have two kidneys and I'm still young. If I stick to my insulin schedule, I don't have to worry about kidney damage, right?" Which of the following statements is the best response?

1) "You have little to worry about as long as your kidneys keep making urine."
2) "You should talk to your doctor because statistics show that you're being unrealistic."
3) "You would be correct if your diabetes could be managed with insulin."
4) "Even with insulin, kidney damage is still a concern."

Answer 1

The most accurate response is that even with insulin, kidney damage remains a concern for someone with diabetic nephropathy. Insulin helps manage blood sugar but does not reverse existing damage. Proper management including blood glucose control, blood pressure regulation, and medical supervision is critical.

Step-by-step explanation:

When addressing the concerns of a 22-year-old patient with diabetic nephropathy, it's crucial to provide accurate and clear information.

The best response would be: "Even with insulin, kidney damage is still a concern." While insulin helps to control blood sugar levels and can contribute to a negative feedback loop to manage blood glucose production, it does not reverse the damage already caused to the kidneys by diabetes.

Consistent management of blood glucose levels is essential, but it's also important to control blood pressure, avoid smoking, and follow medical advice to monitor and manage ongoing kidney health.

Diabetic nephropathy is caused by long-term high blood glucose levels damaging the glomerular capillaries in the kidneys.

Signs of kidney issues include protein in the urine, especially albumin. Maintaining controlled blood sugar levels, managing hypertension, and reducing sodium intake are all important in slowing the progression of kidney damage.

In severe cases, treatment options include dialysis or a kidney transplant.