Each year, over 23 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, as many as 5.7 million more have the disease but are unaware that they do. Often called a silent killer, people can have diabetes for years until the first symptoms appear. By that time, it is often difficult to treat. The good news is that medical science has come up with a number of ways to manage diabetes provided it's caught in time. The secret is learning to recognize its symptoms and acting quickly.
Cardiovascular Disease
When left unmanaged for a period of years, high glucose concentrations accelerate atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. It also contributes to coronary artery disease, heart attacks, strokes and peripheral artery disease. In extreme cases, limbs may require amputation after their prolonged, diminished blood supply.
Hyperglycemia and Eye Diseases
High blood-glucose levels can lead to a number of eye problems that include glaucoma, cataracts and damage to the retina, leading to blindness. Many diabetics who experience retinopathy first notice blurred vision caused from macular edema. Often times, new blood vessels grow on the inside of the retina, causing blocked vision. In the worst cases, retinal swelling, fatty deposits in the retina and leaking blood vessels occur that damage optic nerve tissue.
Other Problems
Unmanaged glucose levels can lead to kidney and nerve damage. Diabetics with unmanaged blood-glucose levels also experience more infections, gum disease and problems with pregnancies. Men may experience erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation. Women often suffer with vaginal dryness, painful sexual intercourse, decreased libido or the absence of sexual response.
