Diabetes Overview
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects how your body uses glucose. Glucose is your body’s main source of energy, and it comes from the food you eat. Diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to numerous health complications if not managed properly. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body does not produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and is usually caused by lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or having a poor diet.
The Consequences of Not Treating Type 2 Diabetes
When you have type 2 diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use insulin correctly. If you don’t treat type 2 diabetes, it can lead to a number of serious health complications. Some of these complications can include heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and stroke. Over time, uncontrolled diabetes can also lead to blindness, amputations, and even death.
Heart Disease
Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes increases your risk of developing heart disease. High blood sugar levels can damage the arteries, which can lead to plaque buildup. This can cause a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart and can result in a heart attack. Type 2 diabetes can also increase your risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which can increase your risk of heart disease.
Kidney Disease
High levels of sugar in the blood can damage the kidneys and cause a condition known as diabetic nephropathy. This is a progressive kidney disease that can lead to kidney failure. When the kidneys fail, they can no longer filter waste from the blood, and the waste can build up in the body. This can lead to a variety of complications, such as high blood pressure, anemia, and an electrolyte imbalance.
Nerve Damage
High blood sugar levels can also damage the nerves in the body, resulting in a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This can cause tingling, numbness, and pain in the hands, feet, and other parts of the body. Diabetic neuropathy can also lead to digestive problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Stroke
Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can increase your risk of stroke. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the brain, which can lead to a stroke. A stroke is a medical emergency and can cause paralysis, speech problems, and memory loss.
Amputations
Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can also lead to amputations. High blood sugar levels can reduce blood flow to the feet and legs, which can lead to infections and ulcers. If these infections are not treated promptly, they can lead to amputation of the affected limb.
Managing Type 2 Diabetes
The best way to prevent the serious health complications associated with type 2 diabetes is to manage the condition effectively. This can include making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. You may also need to take medication to help control your blood sugar levels. It is important to work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that is right for you.
Conclusion
Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to a number of serious health complications if not managed properly. These complications can include heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and stroke. It is important to work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that is right for you, and to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. By managing your type 2 diabetes, you can reduce your risk of developing serious complications and lead a healthier life.