Complications
Diabetes mellitus (the category for both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes) can lead to some very serious complications if not treated correctly. Keep in mind, however, that there are ways to prevent diabetes complications.
Heart Disease and Stroke
According to the American Diabetes Association, 2 out of 3 people with diabetes die of heart disease and stroke.
Heart disease and stroke can be prevented in diabetes patients through not only monitoring blood glucose levels, but also monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol. You can check your overall blood glucose levels using an A-1-C machine. You should aim for an average glucose level less than 7. You should aim to keep your blood pressure below 130/80. Maintaining the proper level of cholesterol in your blood is also essential: talk to your doctor or health care professional to establish what levels your cholesterol should be at.
As a diabetes patient, you can manage your blood glucose level, your blood pressure, and your cholesterol through eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Your doctor might also prescribe medication to help control these variables.
High Blood Pressure
Almost three-quarters of all adults diagnosed with diabetes use medication to prevent hypertension (high blood pressure).
Kidney Disease (Nephropathy)
Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease in the United States. Almost half of all newly-diagnosed kidney disease stems from diabetes.
Blindness
Diabetes is among the leading causes of blindness in the nation.
Complications in Pregnancy
Diabetes can lead to many complications during pregnancy.
Nervous System Disorders
Often people with diabetes will have a nervous system disorder. This could mean they have digest their food more slowly, or it might mean that they lose sensation in parts of their body (particularly their feet).
Dental Diseases
Diabetes causes an increase in gum disease.
Amputations
More than half of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations are for people with diabetes.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Diabetics can be at risk for diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic coma.
Other illnesses
Diabetics diagnosed with other illnesses, such as the flu, might have longer recovery times or more difficult recoveries. An example of this is that people with diabetes are more likely to die from pneumonia than their non-diabetic counterparts.
