5 Long Term Effects of Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which excessive glucose is accumulated in the blood. This can cause damage to large and small blood vessels, resulting in serious consequences. The good news is that with proper care, the effects of diabetes on the body can be controlled and reduced.

While some patients feel disheartened by the lack of immediate results, it’s important to understand that prescribed medications, lifestyle changes and nutrition advised by the doctor can reduce the risk of long-term effects of diabetes. Here are a few long-term effects of diabetes on the body which can cause complications without early detection and treatment.

Diabetic Nephropathy is one of the most common long-term risks of diabetes in which the kidneys are unable to filter out waste from the blood. Kidney diseases usually have no symptoms and are only detected once they reach an advanced stage. If your urine is loaded with microalbumin, chances are that your kidneys are not functioning well. Timely intervention and diet and lifestyle changes aimed at reversing type 2 diabetes can protect your kidneys from further damage.

Men with diabetes are often unable to hold an erection due to damaged nerves and low blood supply. Some men are unable to achieve erection altogether which becomes a reason for impotence. Diabetic women suffer from reduced lubrication and often lack the desire for sexual intercourse.

One of the common effects of diabetes on the body is damage to the central nervous system. Affected nerves can lose the ability to detect heat, pain and cold. This is caused by high blood sugar levels. The sensory and motor nerves are unable to control bodily functions. Lack of sensations can make you susceptible to injuries.

Diabetes increases the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol, which in turn doubles the risk of heart diseases. Excessive sugar in the blood results in fat deposits in the walls of blood vessels. In the long run, this prevents smooth blood flow and hardens the vessels. Proper diabetes nutrition coupled with the right amount of physical activity can keep the pressure levels under control. Quitting smoking can improve your heart health too.

Diabetes tends to damage the nerves and blood vessels, which can dry the skin on your feet. This leads to cracks, which might cause infections. There is risk of developing calluses, which over time leads to ulcers. The warm and moist parts of the body like armpits, mouth and the areas between the fingers and toes are prone to fungal and bacterial infections. To lower the risks, apply petroleum jelly, avoid hot showers and see your doctor in case of a skin infection.

Since there is no cure for this disease, it is highly recommended to seek professional help to understand which lifestyle changes and food habits can help to prevent diabetes. Also, once you have been diagnosed with diabetes, go for regular checkups to understand and control the effects of diabetes on the body.