One particular thing that diabetics have to always consider is the impact that the disease itself can have on the development of other pathologies. This is a tough reality that diabetics never forget. For diabetics, glucose levels in the blood are usually higher than in healthy people, which means that the blood is thicker in diabetics. If having high glucose levels in the blood becomes constant, over time the veins gradually degrade, which can lead to serious health implications.
The top 3 health issues that can be caused by diabetes are:
– Skin issues: This is a family of conditions that are common even in healthy people but especially prevalent in diabetics. Diabetes-related skin issues can include bacterial and fungal infections as well as itching. Other pathologies also include diabetic dermopathy, necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum, and diabetic blisters. Last but not least, scars are also simple marks that can easily be associated with diabetes. Because bloodflow is thicker, the healing process of a wound usually requires a longer period of time and many times we get our “friends” — the scars — for life. Looking on the bright side of things, however, we will always have a story to tell because of these scars.
– Eye issues: In the long run, diabetes induces a higher risk of blindness. For this reason, regular checkups are a must for diabetics. Attending regular doctor visits can help to prevent and detect possible diabetes complications sooner. It is common for diabetics to experience very dry eyes. Usual pathologies in the diabetic eye are mainly Glaucoma, Cataracts and Retinopathy.
– Neuropathy: This condition results from nerve damage, a consequence of diabetes with especially high incidence in people who have had the disease for a number of years. Because of this symptom, over time, diabetics end up losing sensitivity and it usually starts in the feet. Keeping glucose levels on target helps prevent or delaying nerve damage, however. Types of neuropathy usually expressed by diabetics include Peripheral Neuropathy, which is normally associated with tingling, pain, numbness, or weakness in the feet and hands, and Autonomic Neuropathy, which affects the internal nerves inside the body that control the body systems.
Because a disease weakens regular body function, it is normal that the body becomes more susceptible to other types of ilnesses. Nevertheless, it is our duty to make sure that we keep our body as strong and prepared to react as possible. We can “easily” do that by keeping a close track of our glucose levels and regular visits to doctors. Even though we feel like taking a “break” it is important to make an effort not to lose track of our body and always “keep the eyes on the prize,” which is a healthier life!
Note: Diabetes News Journal is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
