In stage 1, GFR, short for glomerular filtration rate increases and the size of kidney increases as well.
In stage 2, the level of albumin is normal. The discharge rate is normal. GFR is higher than normal range and is the same with blood sugar level. Blood pressure is normal in most of time.
In stage 3, it is also called early stage of Diabetic Nephropathy, which takes place in those who have diabetes for more than 5 years and increases with the development of disease condition. The main manifestation is the increased level of albumin in urine, which is about 20 to 200 microgramme per minute. The level of GFR decreases to normal range. Blood pressure rises slightly.
In stage 4, it is called clinical diabetic nephropathy stage. There is a large amount of proteinuria in clinic and the albumin in urine is more than 20 to 200 microgramme per minute. At the same time, there is some microscopic hematuria and casts in urine. With the lost of protein into urine, there will be edema and hypo-albuminemia. GFR begins to decline by 1 per month. However, most patients don’t have increased blood pressure.
In stage 5, it is called end stage renal failure. GFR decreases progressively. Serum creatinine and BUN increase as well, which is also accompanied by severe high blood pressure, edema and hypo-albuminemia. Patients can have loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and anemia and so on.
