My blood sugar is high. Am I at risk for kidney disease?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 36 and newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after routine blood tests. My fasting sugar was 148, PP 212, and HbA1c 7.6 %. The doctor started Metformin 500 mg BD and advised diet changes.

I reduced rice and sweets, but readings are still fluctuating. So, my concerns are:

Does diabetes usually take time to come under control even after lifestyle changes?
How long should I wait before meds are adjusted?
My father had early kidney issues from diabetes, so I am worried. Is it possible to reverse diabetes at this stage, or will it always keep progressing slowly?

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern.

I understand your worry, especially because of your father’s history, and it is good that you have caught this early. In the beginning, it is quite common for blood sugars to fluctuate even after starting medicines and making diet changes.

The body takes some time to adjust, and metformin also needs a few weeks to show its full effect. So what you are seeing right now does not mean treatment is not working.

Usually, we give it around four to six weeks and look at the overall pattern rather than individual readings. If the sugars are still not settling by then, your doctor may increase the dose or add another medicine.

Small adjustments at the right time usually bring things under control. At your stage, this is definitely something that can be controlled very well. I have seen many patients at a similar stage bring their sugars down significantly with consistent diet, activity, and medicines.

In some cases, medicines can even be reduced later. But it does need ongoing care, as the tendency for diabetes remains. Your concern about kidney problems is understandable, but good sugar control from the beginning makes a big difference in preventing such complications.

Regular follow-up and basic tests will help keep everything on track. For now, continue what you are doing, keep things consistent, and review after a few weeks before making any changes.

I hope I have addressed all of your queries and concerns.

For more queries, feel free to reach out anytime.

Thank you.