3. Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease)

If you have diabetes, urine testing should be done annually to check for diabetic nephropathy, commonly known as kidney disease. A baseline creatinine blood test should also be performed to determine your kidney function.

You may need to do those tests more often if you’re likely to develop kidney disease because of heart disease, a family history of kidney failure, or high blood pressure.

If you have foamy urine, have to pee all the time, or feel like your ankles and feet are puffing up with extra water, talk to your doctor. A simple urine test will let them know what to do next. They should also check your blood pressure, as keeping it in the safe zone is essential for slowing kidney disease.