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Complications in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

The long-term effects of improperly managed diabetes on your body and internal organs can be very serious.  The different complications range from eye to heart problems and in severe cases can cause premature death.

Heart disease is the leading cause of deaths in diabetics.  The best way to prevent damage to your heart is to follow your diabetic meal plan and participate in some form of physical activity every day.  By quitting smoking you can decrease the chances of developing any heart problems later on in life.  Eating a diet low in saturated fats will promote good heart health and a normal blood pressure too.

If blood sugar levels are not controlled they can lead to serious eye and sight problems including blindness.  High glucose in your systems will make small veins in your eyes start to bleed.  A regular check-up with an ophthalmologist to check for any signs of damage is recommended once per year.  To prevent this, keep your blood sugars under control.

Kidney failure is most common in diabetics who do not control their blood sugars for extended periods of time.  When the kidneys fail they are no longer able to clean the blood.  After kidney failure the only two options for treatment are dialysis (you are hooked up to a machine that cleans your blood) or a kidney transplant.

Diabetics should take extra care of their gums and teeth as they are more susceptible to gingivitis and other gum disease.  A semi-annual check up at the dentist with a regular brushing and flossing routine will help to prevent this disease and the potential loss of your teeth.

All of these complications can be avoided or lessened by the proper management of your diabetes.  By following the guidelines set for you by your doctor and checking your blood sugars daily you can lead a long and healthy life with diabetes.

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