Common urinary problem in type 2 diabetes patients

People with type 2 diabetes, most of the time, have to suffer from Urinary tract problems like frequency and urgency of urination, sexual dysfunction and kidney health. This is due to the damage to nerves that support the structures of the urinary tract and the effects of high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. These problems differ from patient to patient.

The most common urinary tract problems in type 2 diabetes patient are – Bladder dysfunction, urinary tract infections, sexual dysfunction, and kidney disease.

Bladder Dysfunction:

It is the most common problem in adults with type 2 diabetes. The problems associated with bladder dysfunction include:

• Overactive bladder
• Polyuria
• Nocturia
• Incontinence

Nerve damage and elevated blood sugar level are the most significant causes of bladder dysfunction.

Treatment of bladder dysfunction includes medication, bladder training methods such as timed voiding, electrical stimulation, Kegel exercises, and surgery.

Urinary Tract Infections: 

 Urinary Tract Infections can be caused by bacteria that are especially resistant to treatment. It affects the urethra, bladder, or kidneys. Symptoms of UTI include frequent urination, pain or burning with urination, and urine that is reddish or cloudy.

Read more about UTI: UTI – CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, TREATMENT

Sexual Dysfunction

Type 2 diabetes may lead to sexual dysfunction in some patients. This is due to damage to nerves and blood vessels that supply the reproductive organs and/or surrounding structures.

Treatment for sexual dysfunction caused by type 2 diabetes will largely depend on the nature of the problem.

Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy)

Diabetes can cause chronic kidney disease (CKD). One in four people with diabetes develop kidney disease, also called diabetic nephropathy.

Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy include:

• Worsening blood pressure control
• Protein in the urine
• Swelling of feet, ankles, hands or eyes
• Increased need to urinate
• Reduced need for insulin or diabetes medicine
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Persistent itching
• Fatigue

It takes a long period of time to develop diabetic nephropathy due to progressive damage to the functional structures of the kidney, the nephrons. Therefore people with type 2 diabetes should undergo regular tests for signs of kidney dysfunction.

For more information about the urinary problem in type 2 diabetes patients and its treatment contact directly to Dr. Mangesh Patil. He is one of the most experienced urologist in Mumbai.