Complications of Diabetes

Complications of Diabetes can be classified into acute and chronic.

Acute complications are Hypoglycaemia, Hyperglycaemia & Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).

Hypoglycaemia is happened when there is too much insulin in the body, the dose of medication is higher than required, and not taking enough food.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) this happens when excess blood acids (ketones) are produced by the body due to insulin deficiency.

Hyperglycaemia is known as high blood sugar. It is categorised as blood glucose levels being above 6.9 mmol/L after fasting for 8 hours or 10 mmol/L 2 hours after eating.

Hyperglycaemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS) is a condition where blood glucose levels are very high causing dehydration and possibly could lead to coma if not treated immediately.

Chronic Complications

1. Cardiovascular Disease are heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease due to damage to large blood vessels caused by Diabetes and it called macrovascular complications

2. Diabetic Nephropathy is where the kidneys are damaged due to the deterioration of blood vessels in the kidneys and this is also due high blood sugar level.

3. Diabetic Retinopathy is when the eye is damaged by high blood sugar affecting blood vessels in the retina can lead to Cataract formation, macular degeneration, vision loss and blindness.

4.  Diabetic Neuropathy is happened when the nerves are damaged especially in the feet and hands, causing numbness, tingling, and pain.

5.    Foot Problems arise when both diabetic neuropathy and poor circulation lead to foot ulcers, infections & amputation.

6. Increased Risk of Infections is manifested when people with diabetes are more susceptible to infections, such as skin, gum, & vaginal infection.

7.  Mental Health problems are caused when diabetes impact negative on mental health and lead to increased rates of depression & anxiety.

8.    Sexual Dysfunction is caused by diabetes in both men and women. 

9.  Skin Conditions are caused by diabetes. They are bacterial & fungal infections and diabetic dermopathy like dark & scaly patches.

10. Hearing Impairment is also associated to diabetes which leads to an increased risk of hearing loss.

Liver Disease can happen due to diabetes and lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease & liver fibrosis and cirrhosis