Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin or use it effectively.

Over time, diabetes can cause a wide range of complications, including vision loss, nerve damage, kidney disease, and more. However, apart from these impairments, diabetes also causes numerous disorders that make life difficult. In this article, we’ll explore some of these disorders and how people with diabetes can manage them.

1. Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are two common disorders that people with diabetes often face. The exact cause of depression in people with diabetes is not known.

However, it is believed that the stress of managing the condition, as well as the physical symptoms and complications that come with it, can contribute to depression and anxiety. Symptoms of depression and anxiety include sadness, irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

To manage depression and anxiety, people with diabetes can try the following:.

Stay active with exercise or hobbies
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Engage in meditation or other relaxation techniques
Seek counseling or support groups
Take prescribed anti-depressant medications as directed by your healthcare provider

2. Skin disorders

Diabetes can also cause various skin problems, including dry skin, infections, itching, and slow wound healing. High blood sugar levels can cause dehydration, leading to dry skin, which can cause itching and cracking.

Additionally, high blood sugar levels can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves, which can lead to decreased blood flow and sensation. This can cause non-healing ulcers and infections, especially in areas where the skin is already damaged due to irritation or trauma.

Here are some tips to manage skin disorders in people with diabetes:.

Keep your skin clean and dry
Avoid using harsh soaps or lotions that can cause irritation
Apply lotion after bathing to keep skin moisturized
Inspect your feet daily for any signs of cuts, blisters, or infections
If you notice any changes in your skin, such as redness, swelling, or drainage, contact your healthcare provider right away

3. Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is one of the lesser-known complications of diabetes. However, studies show that people with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss than those without the condition.

The exact reason why this happens is not known, but it is believed that high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss.

To reduce the risk of hearing loss, people with diabetes should:.

Maintain good blood sugar control by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly
Wear ear protection in noisy environments
Get regular hearing tests to monitor for any changes in hearing
If you experience any changes in your hearing, such as difficulty understanding speech or ringing in the ears, contact your healthcare provider right away

4. Oral Health problems

Diabetes can cause a range of oral health problems, including gum disease, dry mouth, and yeast infections. This is because high blood sugar levels provide an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, leading to inflammation and infection.

Here are some tips to maintain good oral health while managing diabetes:.

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups
Avoid smoking and using other tobacco products
If you experience any dental problems, such as bleeding gums or toothache, contact your dentist right away

5. Sexual dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction is another complication that affects people with diabetes. Men and women with diabetes may experience problems with sexual function, such as erectile dysfunction in men and pain during intercourse or decreased libido in women.

This is because high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to decreased blood flow or sensation in the genital areas.

To manage sexual dysfunction, people with diabetes may consider the following:.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you have regarding sexual dysfunction
Follow a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise to maintain good blood sugar control
Quit smoking, as it can further exacerbate sexual dysfunction
Consider using medications or other treatment options, such as vacuum erection devices or lubricants, as directed by your healthcare provider

6. Thyroid disorders

Thyroid disorders are also common among people with diabetes. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism and energy levels in the body.

However, high blood sugar levels can affect the function of the thyroid gland, leading to either an overactive or underactive thyroid.

To manage thyroid disorders, people with diabetes may need to take additional medication to regulate thyroid function. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

7. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, which is a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures, is also more common among people with diabetes. This is because high blood sugar levels can affect bone density and morphology.

Additionally, people with diabetes may be more prone to falls due to neuropathy or vision problems, further increasing their risk of fracture.

To manage osteoporosis, people with diabetes can try the following:.

Engage in weight-bearing exercise, such as walking or lifting weights
Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
Stop smoking, as it can worsen bone loss
If you are at high risk of fracture, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help strengthen your bones

8. Liver Disease

Another complication that affects people with diabetes is liver disease.

Studies show that people with diabetes are more likely to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which occurs when there is an accumulation of fat in the liver that is not caused by alcohol use. People with diabetes are also at a higher risk of developing liver cancer.

To reduce the risk of liver disease, people with diabetes can try the following:.

Maintain good blood sugar control by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly
Drink alcohol only in moderation or avoid it altogether
Avoid exposure to toxins that can harm the liver, such as certain medications or chemicals
If you are at high risk of developing liver disease, your healthcare provider may recommend additional screening or treatment options

9. Eye disorders

Diabetes can cause various eye disorders, including retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. This is because high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems.

Additionally, people with diabetes may be more susceptible to infections and inflammation in the eye.

To manage eye disorders, people with diabetes can try the following:.

Get regular eye exams to monitor for any changes in vision
Maintain good blood sugar control by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly
Avoid smoking, which can further exacerbate eye problems
If you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurred or cloudy vision, contact your healthcare provider right away

10. Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the digestive system and is more common among people with diabetes. It occurs when the nerves that regulate the stomach’s contractions are damaged, leading to delayed stomach emptying.

This can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

To manage gastroparesis, people with diabetes can try the following:.