Recognising diabetic complications
All diabetics do not develop complications. If the blood sugar levels are carefully controlled, in both Types 1 and 2 diabetes, complications may never develop. |
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Diabetes and the eye
When left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness in diabetics. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness among
adults between the ages of 16 and 74. |
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Diabetes and your kidneys
Kidney problems result from damage to the blood vessels in the kidneys. High blood sugar levels, or heavily fluctuating blood sugar levels, can cause this damage. This condition is called nephropathy.
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Diabetes and the circulatory system
When blood glucose levels become uncontrolled, and the glucose levels in the blood remain dangerously high, the blood vessels in certain parts of the body become damaged. |
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Diabetes and the brain
When nerve damage takes place, the nerves that control sensation, are damaged. This can lead to loss of sensation in that part of the body or to unsteadiness, pain and numbness. |
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Diabetes and the heart
Having diabetes increases your risk of having heart disease or stroke. Although there is no cure for diabetes, you can still avoid complications and enjoy a long, productive life. |
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Diabetes and gangrene
Peripheral arterial disease caused by atherosclerosis is more likely to affect diabetics. This condition impairs the circulation in arteries, most notably, |
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Metabolic syndrome tied to diabetes
More than 1.5 million South Africans have type 2 diabetes, which is particularly common among people older than 30 and which often forms part of the metabolic syndrome. |
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Diabetes and oral health
Why is oral health so important to a diabetic?
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