Understanding Your Diabetes Risks, Complications and Management

Diabetes has a significant impact on our communities with approximately 38 million Americans, or one in every 10 people, have diabetes. To make matters worse – about one in five people are unaware that they have it according to the CDC.

Lifestyle factors like diet or physical inactivity are among the primary risk factors contributing to diabetes, so it is important to educate yourself on the condition, especially as possible complications from diabetes can be scary and managing it can look different for everyone. One thing that is for certain, early testing and conversations with your doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) can prevent or delay the onset of many complications related to diabetes.

As a diabetologist who only treats prediabetic and diabetic patients, I’ve seen first-hand how diabetes awareness and education can help them live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Understanding diabetes

If you or someone you know has diabetes, you may know that it affects your blood sugar (glucose). When your body doesn’t produce enough insulin (the hormone that regulates blood glucose), or cannot respond to the effects of insulin properly, glucose builds in the bloodstream and raises blood sugar levels. Over time, raised blood sugar levels can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease or nerve damage.

Diabetes complications

Diabetes has a significant impact on your entire body and disrupts the way your body produces glucose, which is essential for energy. By controlling your blood sugar levels through diabetes management, you can lower your risk of serious medical complications, such as:

• Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): According to the American Diabetes Association, CVD is the leading cause of death in people living with diabetes. High blood pressure (hypertension) and obesity are just a few risk factors that can increase your likelihood of suffering from heart failure, heart attack or stroke. Symptoms of CVD can include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue or weakness in your arms or legs.
  
  
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): The longer you have diabetes, the higher your risk of developing CKD, especially if you have long-term high blood sugar levels. There aren’t any specific symptoms of CKD, so it is important to visit your doctor or APP yearly for regular tests on your kidneys.
  
  
• Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): Nearly half of all people with diabetes encounter some form of nerve damage, which can impair blood flow and lead to poor circulation or inflammation. Symptoms depend on the nerves affected, but generally include tingling, numbness, or increased pain and sensitivity.
  
  
• Additional Complications: Foot, skin, oral and eye problems are possible complications if you have diabetes. Some of these health conditions can be prevented or easily treated, such as making sure to have a yearly eye exam, while others may be more complex.

Complications from diabetes can be severe, and sometimes, life-threatening. It’s important for you to know the warning signs and symptoms so you can be on top of your health. Scheduling regular visits with your doctor or APP can help you develop an effective management plan that can prevent or delay the onset of any diabetes related complications.

Managing your diabetes

Managing your diabetes is not only important for your immediate health and wellness, but also for preventing long-term complications. With the right management plan, you can learn what makes your blood sugar levels rise and fall.

Diabetes looks different on everyone, so how you manage it will look different from someone else. That is why it is important to work with your doctor or APP to decide on a treatment plan that works best for you. Here are a few lifestyle changes to consider when managing your diabetes.

• Eating healthy is important for everyone, but when you have diabetes, it’s critical. Plan balanced meals and count carbohydrates to make sure you’re consuming a healthy balance of nutrients and controlling your portion sizes.
  
  
• Regular physical activity is great for people with diabetes as it helps your body use insulin better.
  
  
• Insulin and other prescription medicines to lower your blood sugar levels may be necessary if diet and exercise alone are not enough.

Over the years, I’ve seen countless patients with diabetes, but I’ve also been able to support them on their health journey. Scheduling frequent visits with your doctor or APP can help you learn more about your risks, better manage any potential complications, and allow them to be a resource for you. With the right education and management, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life while keeping your diabetes in check.

*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.