Uncontrolled high blood sugar over time can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, leading to a range of serious complications. These can significantly impact quality of life and longevity:
Cardiovascular Disease: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, angina (chest pain), and high blood pressure.
Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): High blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness, especially in the feet and legs. This can also affect digestion, blood pressure, and other bodily functions.
Nephropathy (Kidney Disease): Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste from the blood. This can eventually lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Retinopathy (Eye Damage): High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye), potentially leading to vision problems, blindness, and glaucoma.
Foot Problems: Nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet increase the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and even amputation.
Skin Problems: People with diabetes are more prone to various skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections.
Hearing Impairment: Studies have shown a link between diabetes and an increased risk of hearing loss.
Alzheimer's Disease: Research suggests a possible connection between type 2 diabetes and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Increased Risk of Infections: High blood sugar can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
Mental Health Issues: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety.
Managing blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring is crucial for preventing or delaying these complications.