Watch Out for Diabetes Complications – Health News
Serious complications that occur over time are referred to as chronic complications and complications that can occur at any time are referred to as acute complications.
-Chronic complications
These are long-term problems that can develop gradually and cause serious damage if left unchecked and treated.
*Eye problems (retinopathy)
Some people with diabetes develop an eye disease called diabetic retinopathy, which can affect their vision. If retinopathy is acquired – usually through an eye screening test – it can be treated and vision loss prevented.
* Foot problems
Foot problems from diabetes are serious and can lead to amputation if left untreated. Nerve damage can affect sensation in your feet, and elevated blood sugar can impede circulation, slowing the healing of wounds and cuts. That’s why it’s important to tell your doctor if you notice any changes in the look or feel of your feet.
* Heart attack and stroke
If you have diabetes, high blood sugar for a while can damage your arteries. This can sometimes lead to heart attacks and strokes.
* Kidney problems (nephropathy)
Diabetes can cause long-term damage to your kidneys, making it difficult to remove excess fluid and waste from your body. This is due to high blood sugar levels and high blood pressure. It is known as diabetic nephropathy or kidney disease.
* Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Some people with diabetes may develop nerve damage caused by complications from high blood sugar levels. This can affect how we see, hear, feel and act by making it harder for nerves to transfer messages between the brain and every part of our body.
* Gum disease and other oral problems
Too much sugar in your blood can lead to more sugar in your saliva. This introduces acid-producing bacteria that attack your tooth enamel and damage your gums. The blood vessels in your gums can also become damaged, making them more likely to become infected.
*Related conditions such as cancer
Having diabetes puts you at a higher risk of developing certain cancers, and some cancer treatments can affect your diabetes and make it more difficult for you to control your blood sugar.
-Acute complications
These can occur at any time and can lead to chronic or long-term complications.
Hypos – when your blood sugar is too low
Hypers – when your blood sugar is too high
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) – A life-threatening emergency that only occurs in people with type 2 diabetes. It is caused by severe dehydration and very high blood sugar.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) – A life-threatening emergency in which a lack of insulin and high blood sugar lead to a buildup of ketones.