Diabetes is a strong opponent by itself, but add in the possible development of numerous complications and infections which may lead to death and you have a very tough nemesis. It's why one mustn't miss even just a single dose of medicine for diabetes, as just one lapse can cause severe complications such as hypoglycemia.
Although battling diabetes and its complications can be difficult, it’s not hopeless. Educate yourself by reading about the complications caused by this illness. This will not only open your eyes about the difficulties some diabetics face, but will also help you understand the health problems you are likely to encounter in the future so that you can prepare. To help you out with your research, we’ve listed down some of the complications one might develop.
Heart Problems
Diabetes is a dangerous enemy that can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular problems in the future. The chances of developing complications such as a heart attack or a stroke are increased by several factors such as high blood pressure, high blood glucose, and high cholesterol.
If you are feeling some chest pains, don’t just shrug it off. It might be due to a cardiovascular disease such as angina or atherosclerosis. Make an appointment with your doctor or if the pain is too severe, have someone bring you to the emergency room ASAP.
Eye Disease
Different parts of the body can be affected by diabetes, one of which is your eyes. Doctors have found a connection between this metabolic disease and your vision. According to experts, diabetes can damage your retina’s blood vessels. Called Diabetic Retinopathy, this condition can reduce your vision significantly or worse, cause blindness.
Aside from reduced vision and blindness, diabetes can also lead to other eye complications such as glaucoma and cataracts. Like heart diseases, eye problems can be caused by high levels of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose. To avoid falling victim to any of these diseases, don’t forget to have your eyes checked regularly and make sure to keep your lipid and glucose levels normal or at least close to it.
Pregnancy Complications
Expectant mothers should be careful if they have diabetes because it might affect their unborn child. You have to watch your blood sugar levels like a hawk if you have diabetes, otherwise, it might lead to problems in the delivery, as well as trauma to both the mother and child. In addition, women who previously did not have any diabetes may develop gestational diabetes, which only occurs during the pregnancy. After the birth, the diabetic symptoms disappear as well.
To minimize or avoid diabetes-caused pregnancy complications, you should attain a specific glucose level and keep . Not only must you visit your OB-GYN, but you must also make regular visits to your Endocrinologist to monitor how your diabetes is faring during the pregnancy.
The additional health problems diabetes brings are what make it a difficult enemy. The best thing you can do is be cautious; don’t hesitate to consult your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any chest pain or blurry vision. Make sure you are equipped with information so you know what to look for and what to steer clear of to help you avoid falling victim to the complications brought upon by diabetes.