Complications of diabetic nephropathy may develop over months or years which may include: Fluid retention eventually results in swelling in the arms, legs, or fluid in the lungs. Rise in potassium level in the body is called hyperkalemia Diseases related to heart and blood vessel which could lead to heart attack or stroke. Damage to the blood vessel of the retina is called diabetic retinopathy Pregnancy complications that could lead to risk for mother and developing fetus