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We have come a long way to reduce the impact of diabetes on people's lives. Over the past 20 years, the incidence of several major complications among adults with diabetes in the United States has decreased.
The biggest declines were in the two leading causes of death: heart attack and stroke. This is real progress. People with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease. They may also be more severely affected at a younger age than people who don't have diabetes.
Diabetes complications often share the same risk factors, and one complication can worsen another.
For example, many people with diabetes also have high blood pressure, which worsens eye and kidney disease. Diabetes tends to lower HDL (“good”) cholesterol and raise triglycerides (a type of blood fat) and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. These changes can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. smoking doubles Risk of heart disease in people with diabetes.
Let's take a closer look at the main diabetes complications below.
People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease and stroke than people without diabetes.
- Damage to blood vessels in the retina (diabetic retinopathy)
- Clouding of the crystalline lens (cataract)
- Increased fluid pressure within the eye (glaucoma)
High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys and cause chronic kidney disease (CKD). If untreated, CKD can lead to kidney failure. Approximately one in three adults with diabetes has CKD.
Nerve damage is a common complication of diabetes and can cause numbness and pain. Nerve damage most often affects the feet and legs. It can also affect your digestion, blood vessels, and heart.
Diabetes-related damage to blood vessels and nerves, especially in the feet, can lead to serious infections that are difficult to treat. Amputation may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.
- Gum disease can cause tooth loss and increase blood sugar levels, making diabetes difficult to manage. (Gum disease can also increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.)
- Diabetes increases the risk of depression. The risk increases as diabetes-related health problems increase.
- Gestational diabetes can cause serious complications for mother and baby.
Complications usually develop over a long period of time without any symptoms. That's why it's so important to make and keep your doctor's appointments, even if you're feeling well. Early treatment can help prevent or delay diabetes-related health conditions and improve your overall health.
A healthy lifestyle is your roadmap to managing diabetes. This is the key to preventing or delaying complications.
- Follow a healthy eating plan.
- Get at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week.
- Manage your ABCs: Get a recurring schedule a1C test, please keep bControl barometric pressure below 140/90 mm Hg. cWhole sterol levels and suspension sDon't smoke or start.
- Lose weight if necessary.
- Take your medicine as directed.
- Make and keep appointments with your medical team.
When it comes to managing your diabetes, you're in the driver's seat. Follow a healthy eating plan, make time for physical activity, take your medications, and check your blood sugar levels. Be sure to talk to your medical team to keep you moving in the right direction.
The state of diabetes differs from person to person. Even with proper management, some people still suffer from complications. Maybe you are. Even though you are working hard, you are not seeing results. Or, despite your best efforts, you develop health problems related to diabetes.
When you feel discouraged or frustrated, you can fall into unhealthy habits. You can also stop monitoring your blood sugar levels and skip doctor visits.
When that happens, your team will help you get back on track. It helps you set goals, reminds you of your progress, and provides new ideas and strategies. You can also connect with others who know what you are going through. Ask our team about support groups near you or online.