Controlling blood glucose levels is of utmost importance to prevent the detrimental long-term effects of diabetes. Diabetes is primarily caused by either a decrease in insulin secretion or a resistance to the effects of insulin. Insulin is the molecule that moves glucose from the blood into the body's tissue that need it. Too much glucose in the blood can cause significant damage to small blood vessels. There are two types of diabetes. In Type I diabetes, the problem is with the secretion of insulin from the pancreas. In Type II diabetes, the problem is a reduced secretion of insulin from the pancreas and a decrease in the effect of insulin in pushing glucose into the body's tissues. Diabetics should regularly take their medications and frequently check their blood sugars to prevent the long-term complications of diabetes.
Nerve Damage
According to the Mayo Clinic, hyperglycemia can damage the small blood vessels that supply blood to the small nerves in the body. This can cause numbness and tingling in the toes, which then moves into the foot and the rest of the leg. Complete function of the foot or leg can be lost over time. In addition, the nerve damage will prevent a diabetic from noticing new cuts in his feet. This can result in an infection that can get so severe that surrounding bone can become infected and an amputation will be required. If you are a diabetic, you should have your feet checked regularly.
Heart Disease
Diabetes affects all small blood vessels, including the ones in your heart, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, the American Heart Association reports that about three-fourths of diabetics die from heart disease. The risk is even higher with uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Heart disease occurs because the coronary arteries (the blood vessels that supply the heart) become damaged by the high blood glucose. If you are a diabetic, you should have your heart checked regularly by your doctor.
Eye Damage
High blood glucose can also affect the blood vessels in the eye. The Mayo Clinic states that the blood vessels of the retina are damaged, which can result in blindness. The retina is the part of the eye that allows visual images to be converted into signals that can be understood by the brain. In addition, these vessels are very small, which allows them to be easily damaged. Regular eye check-ups are necessary for diabetics to prevent blindness.
