Diabetes Complications and Risks
Diabetes can affect the body slowly over time, and many changes may not be noticed at first. When too much glucose (sugar) stays in the blood for long periods, it can damage different parts of the body. These health problems are often called diabetes complications.
Complications between the heart, kidneys, and metabolic system (the way your body creates, uses, and stores energy) are connected. This connection is called cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic health (CKM health). When one area, such as the heart, kidneys or blood sugar, is not healthy, it can increase the risk of problems in the others. That’s why diabetes care often focuses on protecting all three areas together.
If you have been told you have prediabetes, the encouraging news is that you can take steps now to lower your risk of developing many of these problems.
Heart and blood vessel damage
People living with diabetes, especially Type 2 diabetes, have a higher risk of problems with the heart and blood vessels, including:
- Heart disease
- Atherosclerosis (hardening or narrowing of the blood vessels)
- Stroke
- Peripheral artery disease (poor blood flow to the legs and feet)
- Chronic kidney disease
Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and weight helps protect your heart and blood vessels.
Nerve damage
Over time, high blood sugar can damage nerves. This is called diabetic neuropathy. Symptoms may include:
- Numbness or tingling in the hands, fingers, feet or toes
- Burning or sharp pain, often starting in the feet or hands
- Stomach or digestive problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation
- Changes in sexual function
Not everyone has symptoms at first, which is why regular checkups are important.
Kidney damage
The kidneys filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. Diabetes can damage these filters over time, making the kidneys not work as well. If kidney damage becomes severe, treatment such as dialysis or a kidney transplant may be needed. Regular blood and urine tests help find kidney problems early.
Eye damage
High blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels and lenses in the eyes. This can lead to eye problems such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma or cataracts. These conditions can cause vision loss or blindness if not treated. Regular eye exams can help protect your vision.
Foot problems
Diabetes can cause nerve damage and decreased blood flow to the feet. This may lead to:
- Numbness, tingling or pain
- Loss of feeling in the feet
- Slow-healing cuts or blisters
Even small injuries can become serious if they are not noticed and treated. In advanced cases, infections or ulcer wounds may lead to amputation. Daily foot checks and regular exams can help prevent problems.
Skin and mouth conditions
People living with diabetes have a higher risk of skin infections, mouth infections and gum disease. Good skin care, regular dental visits and daily brushing and flossing can help lower these risks.
Bone damage
People living with Type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of osteoporosis. This condition makes bones weak and more likely to break.
Memory and brain health
Poor blood sugar control may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia later in life. The brain needs a steady supply of glucose for energy. Over time, problems with blood sugar may affect brain health. Researchers are still learning more about this connection.
The list may feel long, but most diabetes-related complications happen when diabetes is not treated or well managed.
The encouraging news is that diabetes can be managed, and many complications can be delayed or even prevented. Healthy daily habits and proper care make a real difference.
You can help prevent or delay complications by:
- Working with your healthcare team and taking medications as prescribed
- Knowing your numbers, including your blood sugar, weight, blood pressure and blood cholesterol.
- Living a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, being more physically active, managing stress and getting enough sleep.
Small steps, taken consistently, can protect your health overtime.
View resource: Understanding Type 2 Diabetes (PDF)
