Complications

Eye disease: most people with diabetes will develop some form of eye disease (retinopathy) causing reduced vision or blindness. Consistently high levels of blood glucose, together with high blood pressure and high cholesterol, are the main causes of retinopathy. But, an early diagnosis and timely treatment of diabetic retinopathy can prevent sight impairment and blindness. Diabetes management includes controlling blood pressure, blood glucose and lipid levels.

Oral complications: diabetes and poor oral health negatively affect each other in a two-way relationship. People with diabetes have an increased risk of inflammation of the gums (periodontitis) if blood glucose is not properly managed. Regular oral check-ups should be established to ensure early diagnosis, particularly among people with previously undiagnosed diabetes and prompt management of any oral complications in people with diabetes.

Cardiovascular disease: diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are associated with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions that collectively comprise the largest cause of disease and mortality for people with diabetes. People with diabetes are two to three times more likely to have cardiovascular disease than people without diabetes. High levels of blood glucose can make the blood coagulation system more active, increasing the risk of blood clots.

Kidney disease: is far more common in people with diabetes than in people without diabetes. It is caused by damage to small blood vessels, which can cause the kidneys to be less efficient, or to fail altogether. Maintaining near normal levels of blood glucose and blood pressure can greatly reduce the risk of kidney disease.

Pregnancy complications: women with any type of diabetes during pregnancy risk a number of complications if they do not carefully monitor and manage their condition. Gestational diabetes is associated with multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Women with gestational diabetes are at subsequent high risk of type 2 diabetes, especially three to six years after delivery, so it’s important for women with diabetes in pregnancy or GDM to carefully control and monitor their blood glucose levels to reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes with the support of their healthcare provider.

Nerve disease: Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves throughout the body when blood glucose and blood pressure are too high. The numbers say that diabetic foot and lower limb complications affect between 40 and 60 milion people with diabetes globally. Nerve damage in these areas is called peripheral neuropathy, and can lead to pain, tingling, and loss of feeling. Loss of feeling is particularly important because it can allow injuries to go unnoticed, leading to serious infections and possible amputations.