Which medications and foods are best for my dad with diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney damage?

  • Q: My dad has had high blood sugar and high blood pressure during the past 25 years. He uses an insulin 16 units in the morning and 10 units in the evening. Three years before, he had a kidney test and his urea and creatinine is higher than its real value. Which medication and foods are best for him?
  • A: Diabetes is a common cause of kidney problems, and this complication occurs because the small blood vessels leading to the kidneys get damaged by diabetes and high sugar levels in the blood. The kidneys are not able to filter the blood as well and the body retains more salt which leads to swelling. The most effective ways to limit or prevent kidney damage include 1) maintaining good control of blood sugar, which means routine monitoring and following a diabetes diet as directed by your doctor, 2) controlling high blood pressure, 3) getting medical care for any signs or symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as pain when urinating or fever, 4) talking to your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications to make sure they are not worsening kidney damage, and 5) avoiding a high-protein diet. The treatment of kidney disease depends on the severity of disease and other conditions. For more specific information, consult with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance based on your health status and current medications, particularly before taking any action. Michelle McDermott, RPh, PharmD
This question was answered on November 01, 2010.


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