Early stages of diabetic nephropathy typically do not show distinct symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, various signs may emerge. These include high blood pressure (hypertension), the presence of protein or albumin in the urine (albuminuria) (which, depending on its severity, can manifest as swelling, particularly in the ankles, feet, or hands, and associated weight gain), frequent urination, difficulty concentrating and confusion, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. It is also observed that hypertension is twice as common in individuals with diabetes compared to those without diabetes.