Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition in which the body is unable to produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

The impact of diabetes on health can be severe, leading to a range of complications that can affect various organs and systems within the body. In this article, we will look at the unforgiving impact of diabetes on health and explore some of the ways in which this disease can harm the body.

Cardiovascular System

One of the most significant impacts of diabetes on health lies in its effect on the cardiovascular system.

Diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems by damaging blood vessels, causing inflammation, and raising levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those without diabetes, and it is a leading cause of death among people with diabetes.

Kidneys

The kidneys are also vulnerable to the impact of diabetes on health. Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure, accounting for around 44% of all cases in the United States.

Over time, high levels of glucose in the blood can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, affecting their ability to filter waste from the body. This can lead to kidney damage, eventually progressing to kidney failure if left untreated.

Eyes

Another area of the body that can be affected by the impact of diabetes on health is the eyes. Diabetes can damage the blood vessels that supply the retina, causing a condition called diabetic retinopathy.

This can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. The risk of developing diabetic retinopathy is higher in people with poorly controlled blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and a long history of diabetes.

Nerves

Diabetes can also damage the nerves, leading to a condition called diabetic neuropathy. This can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, tingling, and numbness in the feet, legs, hands, and arms.

In some cases, diabetic neuropathy can also affect the digestive system, causing nausea, vomiting, bloating, and diarrhea.

Infections

People with diabetes are more prone to infections due to the impact of diabetes on health. High levels of glucose in the blood can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

Diabetes can also slow down the healing process, making it more difficult to recover from infections and injuries.

Skin

The skin can also be affected by the impact of diabetes on health. Diabetes can cause dry skin, which can lead to cracking, itching, and infections.

Poor circulation in people with diabetes can also make it harder for wounds and infections to heal, increasing the risk of skin ulcers and other complications.

Mental Health

Diabetes can also have an impact on mental health. People with diabetes are more likely to experience depression and anxiety than those without diabetes.

This may be due to the stress and lifestyle changes associated with managing diabetes, as well as the impact of diabetes on various aspects of health.

Lifestyle Impact

Finally, the impact of diabetes on health can also be felt in terms of lifestyle changes. People with diabetes may need to make significant changes to their diet, exercise routine, and daily routines to manage their condition effectively.

This can be challenging and require significant effort and commitment, impacting their overall quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the impact of diabetes on health can be severe and far-reaching. From the cardiovascular system to the nerves and mental health, diabetes can affect various aspects of the body and require significant lifestyle changes.

It is important for people with diabetes to take control of their health and actively manage their condition to reduce the risk of complications and maintain a high quality of life.