Dr Arunima Mahanta, MD, DM - Best Nephrologist in Guwahati Our kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products, excess water, and other impurities out of the blood. Such toxins are stored in the bladder and flows out with urine in certain intervals. In addition, kidneys also regulate pH, salt, and potassium levels in our body. Further, they produce hormones that regulate blood pressure and control the production of red blood cells. Kidney diseases are one of the major health concerns today. Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. Kidney damage caused by diabetes usually occurs slowly, over many years. Hence, it’s important to take on-time steps to protect your kidneys and to prevent or delay kidney damage. Consult a nephrologist early, if you are diabetic.