Complications of Diabetes
Diabetes is a serious health problem that is experienced by millions of people in the world. It occurs when your body fails to regulate the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood properly and sugar is the primary energy source in the body. A lot of things in your body may be hurt after a long time of high blood sugar. Such issues are known as diabetes complications, and they may be rather grave without good control.
The silver lining here is that it is possible to postpone or even avoid a lot of complications by taking good care of diabetes. So what are these complications, how do they come about and how can you limit your risk of them?
What can Diabetes lead to if left unmanaged? In this eye-opening video, we delve into the serious long-term complications that can arise from uncontrolled diabetes, from heart disease and kidney damage to vision problems and nerve issues.
We’ll explain the risks in a clear and approachable way, and offer tips on how to prevent these complications through better management. Whether you’re living with diabetes or supporting someone who is, this video is a must-watch to help you understand the importance of taking action and staying on top of your health. Tune in and empower yourself with the knowledge to protect your future!
Watch our insightful video to learn “What can Diabetes lead to?“
Eye problems (diabetic retinopathy)
Having (high) blood sugar may harm the tiny blood vessels of your eyes. This disorder is referred to as diabetic retinopathy. It does not necessarily begin with any symptoms, but as it progresses, it might lead to the loss of sight or complete blindness.
The other eye complications are:
- Cataracts (misty lens of the eye)
- Glaucoma (high pressure on the eye)
What can you do to safeguard your eyes:
- Have an eye test once a year
- Manage your blood sugar level
- Make sure that your cholesterol and blood pressure is under control
Kidney disease (diabetic nephropathy)
In your body, waste is filtered through your kidneys. Hyperglycemia may destroy the small filters of your kidneys, causing diabetic nephropathy. This may, in worst cases, lead to kidney failure and a dialysis or a kidney transplant is necessary.
What can be done to save your kidneys:
- Get a check up on your kidney every year
- Control your blood sugar
- Check your blood pressure
- Watch your salt intake
Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy)
Excessive sugar levels may damage nerves in all parts of the body leading to diabetic neuropathy.
Diabetic neuropathy is of various types:
- Peripheral neuropathy: this involves the feet and hands and can cause numbness, tingling or pain
- Autonomic neuropathy: Attacks internal organs creating digestive, bladder, or sexual problems
- Focal neuropathy: weakness of a single nerve, usually in the head, leg, or torso
What to do to safeguard your nerves:
- Maintain blood sugar level in the healthy range
- Inspect your feet every day to look at cuts, bruises, or infections
- Go to your doctor when you experience numbness or pain
Foot problems
The fact that diabetes affects your nerves and blood flow makes the wounds on your feet heal slowly. A small cut or a blister can be infected. Other severe outcomes of this condition may be foot ulcers and even amputation.
What can you do to keep your feet safe:
- Examine your feet every day
- Wash and dry your feet carefully
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Go to a podiatrist regularly
Heart disease and stroke
Diabetes also predisposes individuals to heart diseases and stroke by destroying blood vessels and raising the level of cholesterol.
Heart disease causes the death of individuals with diabetes.
Protect your heart by:
- Consuming a good diet
- Physical activity (keep fit)
- Stopping smoking
- Regulating your blood pressure and cholesterol
- Taking medications as prescribed, when necessary
Skin problems
Diabetes may lead to skin infections and other skin problems, which include:
- Bacterial infections (boils, styes)
- Fungal infections (athlete’s foot, yeast infections)
- Dry skin causing itchiness
What can you do to save your skin:
- Wash skin and apply lotion
- Treat cuts and scrapes right away
- Look out for redness, swelling or warmth
Dental problems
Bacteria thrive in your mouth because of the high sugar level in your blood, which causes gum disease and tooth decay. It also becomes more difficult to combat infections with diabetes and this predisposes one to dental problems.
What can you do to take care of your teeth and gums:
- Take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing every day
- See your dentist on a regular basis
- Manage your blood sugar
Mental health
Diabetes causes stress. Most of the individuals are traumatized, worried or even depressed about how to cope with their condition. Mood may also be influenced by blood sugar swings.
What you can do to guard against mental illness:
- Communicate with friends or family
- Participate in diabetes support group
- Speak with a counsellor or mental health professional
- Get into meditation or do something that reduces stress such as walking
Why do these complications happen?
The complications of diabetes occur due to the damage that is caused to blood vessels and nerves of the entire body by elevated levels of sugar in the blood. This accumulates after months and years to damage numerous organs.
This is why the management of your blood sugar at an early stage is important. Any slight improvements in your level of blood sugar can reduce the risks of complications.
How can I prevent complications of diabetes?
Although diabetes is a life-long disease, you have an opportunity to manage your health and avoid or postpone numerous complications. Here’s how:
- Check your blood sugar regularly. Pay attention to the information given by your doctor regarding testing and targets.
- Have a healthy diet. Select more vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats. Reduce processed and sugary food.
- Stay active. Exercise at least half an hour on most days. Walking is great!
- See your doctor regularly. Stay current with screenings, labs, tests, and checkups.
- Manage stress. Blood sugar is more difficult to control with stress so learn to de-stress.
- Stop smoking. The risk of cardiovascular diseases and other issues is enhanced by smoking.
- Take care of your feet and eyes. Problems should be addressed early on, and this can help you avert severe consequences.
Can complications of diabetes be delayed – or even prevented entirely?
In this video, we explore the potential to manage diabetes proactively and reduce the risk of long-term complications. From lifestyle changes to early warning signs and holistic approaches, you’ll discover how to take control of your health and improve your quality of life with diabetes.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one, this video offers valuable insights to help you stay informed and empowered.
Watch our informative video to learn “Can complications of Diabetes Be Delayed or even Prevented?“
Final thoughts
Complications of diabetes may sound frightening, yet keep in mind: you are the one to make a change. You can avoid much of the damage caused by these complications by controlling your blood sugar, eating healthily and visiting your healthcare providers on a regular basis.
The only thing to do is to act now and not to wait, especially in case you or somebody you know has diabetes. The best time to begin is today, so you can educate yourself more about your condition, keep up with your treatment, and request assistance when necessary.
Making little efforts on a daily basis, you can save your health for many years.
Your health in years to come could be safeguarded by small steps that you take every day.
This article is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional and personalized medical advice. Always seek diagnosis and treatment from a qualified healthcare provider, which is specific to your own case.
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To learn more about Diabetes, check out our other related blogs:
Can complications of Diabetes be delayed and even prevented?
What are the potential complications of unmanaged Diabetes?
Diabetes and your eyes – what you need to know
