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Living with type 2 diabetes can be dangerous if you do not take care of yourself. Here are 6 complications that can sneak up on you.
Introduction
Living with type 2 diabetes is not easy, but it is not impossible. What I have found is that living with type 2 diabetes takes a mindset. A mindset that supports making the right decisions that lead to a better quality of life.
Exercise, food, sleep, relaxation, testing blood sugar levels, taking medication, and adding some of your own can all lead to frustration, desperation, and despair. Doing the right thing is a mindset.
An example: The family went to an Italian restaurant, and everyone except me had their favourite food: pizza, spaghetti, gnocchi—you get the picture. What did I have? A four-ounce piece of meat with a salad.
It is a mindset; I have decided to live a better quality of life living with type 2 diabetes without using medication. My continuous goal is to keep my A1C at 6.2 (112). If I do something that is contrary to my goal, I am only doing it to myself.
Why Do I Do This?
I live with diabetes the way I do because I want a better quality of life and a long life. I do not need or want any of the six complications I cover below to come up and bite me. With the right mindset, you can accomplish this, too, and if you ever want some support, I am always here for you. Just give me a shout through our website.
Six Complications of Type 2 Diabetes
Following are six complications of type 2 diabetes that you need to be aware of if you want to live a better quality of life living with diabetes.
Cardiovascular Disease: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart and blood vessels' functions. This damage raises the likelihood of developing conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. Managing blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels through lifestyle changes and medications is essential for preventing cardiovascular complications.
Neuropathy: Diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to neuropathy. This condition affects various nerves in the body, commonly those in the feet and legs. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness. Left untreated, neuropathy can result in serious complications such as foot ulcers, infections, and even amputation. Proper foot care, blood sugar control, and medications can help prevent or delay neuropathy's progression.
Nephropathy: Diabetic nephropathy is kidney damage caused by diabetes. High blood sugar levels over time can harm the kidneys' filtering units, leading to kidney disease and eventual kidney failure. Early detection through regular screenings and management of blood sugar and blood pressure is crucial for preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy.
Retinopathy: Diabetes is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in adults. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, this condition can cause vision problems, including blurred vision, floaters, and even complete vision loss. Regular eye exams, blood sugar control, and timely treatment can help prevent or minimize the impact of diabetic retinopathy.
Peripheral Artery Disease: Diabetes increases the risk of peripheral artery disease, which affects blood flow to the limbs, particularly the legs. PAD can cause leg pain, numbness, and wounds that heal slowly or not at all. In severe cases, it can lead to tissue death (gangrene) and the need for amputation. Managing diabetes, quitting smoking, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, are crucial for preventing PAD and its complications.
Skin Complications: People with diabetes are prone to various skin problems due to impaired wound healing, poor circulation, and nerve damage. Common skin conditions associated with diabetes include fungal infections, bacterial infections, and diabetic dermopathy (skin spots). Proper skincare, regular self-examinations, and prompt treatment of any skin issues can help prevent complications and maintain skin health.
Conclusion
In some of those conditions, I cannot even pronounce the names, and I certainly do not want to live with them. For all of us, living with type 2 diabetes is a choice. I know it is hard, and sometimes life sucks. But we all have choices, and I encourage you to make the right ones to live a better quality of life living with diabetes.
In conclusion, lifestyle choices, proactive management, and regular medical care can prevent or minimize many complications. Do it for you and your family.
Best wishes from all of us ...
Vancouver, Canada
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