But in some cases, despite your best efforts to manage the disease, issues can arise. Warding off the serious and sometimes fatal health complications linked with type 2 diabetes starts with being aware of their potential. Then it’s important to take steps to decrease their risk. It’s also important to maintain a healthy weight and good cholesterol levels.
Possible Short-Term Complications of Diabetes
Sexual Issues Diabetic Coma Even though diabetic comas are rare, there’s the risk of unconsciousness with hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia (abnormally low blood sugar). Hypoglycemia can arise from excessive insulin, typically from drugs such as sulfonylureas or insulin. Unconsciousness happens when your brain doesn’t receive a sufficient amount of glucose to function properly. Early warning signs of hypoglycemia include hunger, sweating, and shaking. Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Diarrhea From Medication Use
Possible Long-Term Complications of Diabetes
Diabetic Neuropathy and Amputation
Eye Problems Heart Disease and Stroke Kidney Disease Sleep Apnea Diabetic Dermopathy
This condition is harmless, and the skin patches don’t usually hurt or itch. Treatment isn’t necessary, and spots may disappear on their own. Gum Disease Cancer
Also, learn how to recognize signs that your diabetes therapy isn’t working, and then speak with your doctor before complications arise. These signs include increased hunger, increased urination, fatigue, blurry vision, and headaches.
Lose weight.Eat a balanced, healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.Monitor your intake of carbohydrates and sugary foods.Manage your cholesterol and blood pressure.Exercise at least 30 minutes most days of the week.Check your blood sugar level frequently when sick.Get seven to nine hours of sleep.Don’t smoke.Get annual physicals, vaccines, and eye examinations.Drink alcohol in moderation.Manage stress (stress hormones can increase insulin resistance).
Retina exam Eyedrops are used to dilate or widen your pupils, and then your doctor uses a machine to take a picture of your retina. This test assesses the health of your eyes and can help diagnose diabetic retinopathy. Foot examination Your doctor examines your feet for signs of infection, nerve damage, and poor circulation. Cholesterol and blood screening Your doctor will draw a blood sample to check your cholesterol, and see if your blood pressure is within a healthy range. High blood pressure and cholesterol increase the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and vision problems. Kidney screening You’ll provide a urine sample to see if there’s protein in your urine. Protein can be a sign of kidney damage.
