Jakarta, ThedailyID — Diabetes can affect more than blood sugar levels. When glucose remains high for long periods, it can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body.
Type 2 diabetes remains more common than type 1. Lifestyle factors, including physical inactivity and unhealthy eating habits, can increase the risk of developing the condition.
People with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar regularly. They also need to maintain a healthy diet and follow their doctor’s treatment recommendations.
According to WebMD and other health references, uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to several complications. Here are seven body parts and organs that diabetes can affect.
1. Eyes
High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes. Over time, this can lead to diabetic retinopathy, blurred vision, and even blindness.
Regular eye examinations can help detect complications before they become severe.
2. Skin
Diabetes can cause the body to lose fluids, leaving the skin dry, itchy, and cracked. These problems often affect the feet, hands, elbows, and other areas.
High blood sugar can also damage nerves, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. As a result, people may not notice cuts, injuries, or infections.
3. Heart
The heart faces serious risks when blood sugar remains high. Diabetes can damage blood vessels and encourage fatty deposits to build up inside arteries.
These changes increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
4. Feet
Foot complications often occur when diabetes damages nerves and reduces blood circulation. People may lose sensation and fail to notice injuries or wounds.
Poor circulation also makes infections harder to heal. In severe cases, doctors may need to amputate an affected limb.
5. Kidneys
The kidneys contain millions of tiny blood vessels that filter waste from the blood. High glucose levels can damage these vessels and reduce kidney function.
Over time, this damage can lead to diabetic kidney disease. Without proper treatment, some patients may eventually develop kidney failure.
6. Reproductive Organs
High blood sugar can also affect sexual and reproductive health. Damage to blood vessels and nerves may interfere with sexual function.
According to Medical News Today, men with diabetes face a higher risk of erectile dysfunction. The condition can also affect sexual health in women.
7. Digestive System
Diabetes can damage the vagus nerve, which helps control the movement of food through the stomach and intestines.
This condition can disrupt digestion and cause several problems. Symptoms may include acid reflux, stomach cramps, vomiting, constipation, and unexplained weight changes.
Managing blood sugar remains essential to reducing the risk of these complications. Regular medical checkups, a balanced diet, physical activity, and proper treatment can help protect long-term health.
