Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of diabetes has steadily increased over the years, with an estimated 422 million adults living with diabetes in 2014.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and it occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin.

If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to various complications that can affect different parts of the body.

High Blood Sugar Levels

One of the primary risk factors for diabetes complications is high blood sugar levels.

When blood sugar levels are consistently high, it can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves in different parts of the body, including the eyes, kidneys, and nerves.

To control blood sugar levels, people with diabetes should take their medications as prescribed, follow a healthy diet, and exercise regularly.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension is a common condition that is often associated with diabetes. When blood pressure is consistently high, it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

To manage blood pressure, people with diabetes should follow a low-salt diet, exercise regularly, and take their medications as prescribed by their healthcare provider.

High Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels are often associated with diabetes and can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke.

Cholesterol levels can be managed through a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, regular exercise, and medication as prescribed.

Smoking

Smoking is a well-known risk factor for various health conditions, including diabetes. Smoking can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other complications in people with diabetes.

If you have diabetes, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do to improve your health. Speak to your healthcare provider to obtain resources to help you quit smoking.

Obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes and the development of diabetes complications. This is because excess body weight can cause insulin resistance, and fat cells can release hormones that can increase inflammation.

Obesity can also lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and heart disease.

To manage obesity, people with diabetes should aim to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Age

Age is also a risk factor for diabetes complications because blood vessels and nerves can become damaged over time. Older people with diabetes are also more likely to develop complications such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease.

Therefore, it is important for older people with diabetes to have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider and to manage their blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels effectively.

Duration of Diabetes

The longer a person has diabetes, the higher their risk of developing complications. This is because high blood sugar levels can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves over time.

Therefore, it is important for people with diabetes to manage their diabetes effectively and to have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor their condition.

Genetics

Family history can also increase a person’s risk of developing diabetes complications. If someone in your family has diabetes, you may be at a higher risk of developing the condition.

Therefore, it is essential for people with a family history of diabetes to ensure they maintain a healthy lifestyle and speak to their healthcare provider about diabetes screening and monitoring.

Other Health Conditions

Other health conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, and neuropathy can also increase a person’s risk of developing diabetes complications.

If you have any other health conditions, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively. This may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or other treatments.

In Conclusion

Diabetes complications can have severe implications on a person’s quality of life and can cause serious health problems.

Therefore, it is essential for people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels effectively and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

If you have diabetes and are experiencing any symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, blurry vision, frequent urination, or extreme thirst, speak to your healthcare provider to receive appropriate care.