Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects your body’s ability to use and store glucose.

It occurs when your pancreas does not produce enough insulin – a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels – or when your body does not respond properly to insulin. Over time, uncontrolled diabetes can harm your health in several ways:.

1. Cardiovascular Disease

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.

This is because high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart and blood vessels. Uncontrolled diabetes can also lead to the buildup of plaque inside the arteries, which can restrict blood flow to the heart and brain.

2. Kidney Disease

The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from your blood. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and small filters in the kidneys, leading to kidney disease or even kidney failure.

In fact, diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease in the United States.

3. Eye Problems

Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to diabetic retinopathy – a condition that causes blurry vision or even blindness.

In addition, people with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts and glaucoma, both of which can cause vision loss without treatment.

4. Neuropathy

Diabetes can also damage the nerves in your body, leading to neuropathy – a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in your hands and feet.

Neuropathy can also affect other parts of your body, including your digestive system, urinary tract, and sexual organs.

5. Infections

High blood sugar levels can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. People with diabetes are more prone to developing infections, such as skin infections and urinary tract infections.

In addition, uncontrolled diabetes can slow down the healing process, making it harder for your body to recover from infections or injuries.

6. Dental Problems

People with diabetes are more likely to develop dental problems, including gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. High blood sugar levels can cause bacteria to grow in your mouth, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay.

In addition, diabetes can slow down the healing process in your mouth, making it harder for your gums to heal and your teeth to stay healthy.

7. Skin Problems

Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your skin, making it harder for your skin to heal from injuries or infections. People with diabetes are more prone to developing skin problems, such as bacterial infections, fungal infections, and itching.

In addition, diabetes can cause skin to become dry and prone to cracking, which can lead to infections if left untreated.

8. Sexual Dysfunction

Diabetes can also affect your sexual health, leading to erectile dysfunction in men and decreased sexual desire in both men and women.

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control sexual function, making it harder to achieve or maintain an erection or to experience sexual pleasure.

9. Pregnancy Complications

Women with diabetes who become pregnant are at a higher risk of developing complications, such as preeclampsia, premature delivery, and gestational diabetes.

In addition, uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy can harm the developing fetus, leading to birth defects, stillbirth, or a baby that is too large to deliver vaginally.

10. Mental Health Problems

People with diabetes are more likely to develop mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. High blood sugar levels can affect brain function and mood, leading to a higher risk of developing mental health issues.

In addition, living with a chronic illness like diabetes can be stressful and can impact your quality of life.

Conclusion

Uncontrolled diabetes can harm your health in many ways, affecting your heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, immune system, teeth, skin, sexual health, pregnancy, and mental health.

If you have diabetes, it is important to work with your healthcare team to manage your blood sugar levels, monitor your health, and prevent complications.