Although prediabetes does not necessarily develop into full-blown diabetes, it is still a cause for concern because it increases the likelihood of type 2 diabetes as well as other health issues such as heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke.
There are different types of diabetes, including type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects the body’s ability to control blood sugar levels. If uncontrolled or not managed properly, diabetes can have many harmful effects on various aspects of your health. There are different types of diabetes, including type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.
To avoid diabetes, it is important to have a healthy diet and lead a healthy life. Here are 10 ways diabetes can harm you:
- Cardiac complications: Diabetes increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke and peripheral artery disease. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and contribute to plaque build-up, narrowing arteries and impeding blood flow.
- Nerve damage (neuropathy): Prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage, causing symptoms such as numbness, tingling and pain, usually in the hands and feet. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy.
- Kidney damage (nephropathy): Diabetes is a major cause of kidney disease. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste and extra fluid from the body. This can progress to chronic kidney disease and eventually require dialysis or a kidney transplant.
- Eye complications (retinopathy): Diabetes can affect the blood vessels in the retina, causing a condition called diabetic retinopathy. It can cause vision problems and, if left untreated, can lead to severe vision loss or even blindness.
- Foot problem: Diabetes can cause poor circulation and nerve damage in the feet, making individuals more prone to foot ulcers, infections and slow wound healing. In severe cases, this can lead to amputation of the foot or leg.
- skin condition: Diabetes can lead to various skin problems, including dry skin, fungal and bacterial infections, itching and slow wound healing. High blood sugar levels can provide a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Increased risk of infection: Diabetes weakens the immune system, making a person more vulnerable to infection. Common infections in people with diabetes include urinary tract infections, skin infections and recurring yeast infections.
- Poor Oral Health: Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease (periodontitis) and tooth decay. High blood sugar levels can contribute to the growth of bacteria in the mouth and reduce the body’s ability to fight off oral infections.
- mental health issues: Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Managing a chronic condition such as diabetes can be emotionally challenging and can affect a person’s overall well-being.
Complications during pregnancy: Pregnant women with diabetes are at a higher risk of complications, including preeclampsia, premature birth, and gestational diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy can also affect the health of the baby.
It is important to note that with proper management including medication, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and monitoring of blood glucose levels, many of these complications can be prevented or minimized. Regular medical checkups and working closely with health professionals can help individuals with diabetes maintain good overall health and prevent long-term complications.
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