| Complications of Diabetes |
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| by Diet Detective Editorial Staff | |
| Saturday, 08 July 2006 | |
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Why should you keep your blood sugar under control? Keep reading for a list of many complications that you do NOT want to happen to you!
Cardiovascular: People with diabetes are at higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, and complications related to poor circulation.Following a healthy eating plan, especially monitoring saturated fat intake, coupled with exercise and quitting smoking can all help fight cardiovascular disease. Skin: Many people first discover that they have diabetes when they suffer from a skin disorder such as bacterial or fungal infections, thickened skin, darkened patches, blisters, etc. About one third of all diabetics will experience such a disorder at some point in their lives. Prevention of skin disorders through proper hygiene and care, as well as early treatment, is imperative. Feet: Problems with feet are common for those with diabetes, usually because of nerve damage or poor blood flow. Check feet frequently for cuts, changes in color, ingrown nails, and other signs. Learn proper foot care from a trained professional. Oral: Diabetics are at increased risk for gum disease and mouth infections, so regular brushing and flossing is imperative. Make sure you see your dentist at least twice a year, and that he/she knows you have diabetes. Eyes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in and around the eyes. Many people with diabetes suffer from glaucoma, develop cataracts even at young ages or are diagnosed with retinopathy, which can lead to blindness. To prevent or reduce your risk, keep your blood sugar AND blood pressure levels under control, don't smoke, and get regular eye exams by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Kidney: When blood sugar levels are too high, the kidneys have to work harder to filter that excess sugar out. This added strain on the kidneys can lead to loss of proper kidney function, ultimately threatening the body's delicate balance of critical blood components like minerals and proteins. Again, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure levels helps maintain the kidney's health. Nerves: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels are also thought to be the cause of nerve damage that is common in diabetes. This nerve damage or "neuropathy," may cause numbness, tingling, and sometimes pain, affecting a range of body organs from the fingers, legs, and toes, the stomach and bladder, the hands and fingers, and even the eyes. Regular exercise, weight loss, and controlled blood sugar levels all may help prevent or delay the onset of neuropathy. Bookmark:            Trackback(0)
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