Most people are aware that, untreated, they can lead to heart attacks, stroke and blindness.
Less commonly known is that both can lead to kidney disease. The kidneys work hard, processing about two quarts of waste products and extra water daily. If they did not remove these wastes, they would build up in the blood and damage the body. Although we have two kidneys, people who are born with only one kidney, or who donate a kidney for transplantation, are able to lead normal, healthy lives. Often, symptoms present only when the disease is advanced.