Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a host of complications that can affect nearly every organ in the body. Here are some of the major complications of uncontrolled diabetes:
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Cardiovascular diseases: High blood sugar levels increase the risk of cholesterol deposits building up on blood vessel walls, which can lead to heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
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Eye problems: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the eyes, which can cause diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and eventually blindness.
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Kidney disease: Uncontrolled diabetes puts people at an increased risk of developing diabetic nephropathy, which can cause kidney damage. Approximately one-third of people with diabetes mellitus develop kidney (renal) damage. If renal issues worsen and lead to end-stage renal disease and the kidneys lose most of their function, treatment involves dialysis or a kidney transplant.
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Nerve damage: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves throughout the body, leading to a condition called diabetic neuropathy. This can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands, feet, and other parts of the body.
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Foot issues: Uncontrolled diabetes can cause foot and leg sores, which are difficult to treat and can lead to infection. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary.
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Gum disease: High blood sugar levels can lead to gum disease, which can cause tooth loss and other oral health problems.
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Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): A life-threatening emergency where the lack of insulin and high blood sugars leads to a build-up of ketones.
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Dehydration: Excess sugar is excreted in the urine, and as blood sugar levels rise, the urination frequency increases. This can lead to severe dehydration and excessive thirst.
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Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels can cause dizziness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness.
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Infections: High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
Its important to note that many of these complications can develop gradually and may not have any symptoms, so its crucial to regularly monitor blood sugar levels and attend diabetes health checks. Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and...