Type 2 diabetes is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a chronic condition that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Long-term complications of type 2 diabetes include diabetic retinopathy, kidney disease (nephropathy), diabetic neuropathy, and macrovascular problems. In this article, we will discuss the risk factors for type 2 diabetes and the steps you can take to prevent or delay its onset.
The first step in preventing type 2 diabetes is to understand the risk factors. These include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, being physically inactive, having high blood pressure, and having high cholesterol. If any of these risk factors apply to you, it is important to take action to reduce your risk. One of the most common long-term complications of type 2 diabetes is diabetic retinopathy.
This is an eye condition that can cause vision loss if left untreated. Regular eye screenings are important for detecting retinopathy early and preventing vision loss. Foot problems are also a common complication of type 2 diabetes. Nerve damage can affect the sensation in the feet and increased blood sugar can damage circulation, leading to ulcers and slow healing cuts.
It is important to tell your doctor if you notice any changes in the look or feel of your feet. Heart attack and stroke are also potential complications of type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar levels over a period of time can damage your blood vessels, increasing your risk for heart attack and stroke. Kidney problems (nephropathy) are another potential complication of type 2 diabetes.
High blood sugar levels and high blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time, making it difficult for them to remove excess fluid and waste from the body. Hypoglycemia is another short-term effect of type 2 diabetes. This is when your blood sugar levels drop too low, which can be dangerous if left untreated. People with type 2 diabetes also have an increased risk of heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
It is important to have your cholesterol (blood fats) and blood pressure checked at least once a year to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Diabetic comas are rare but can occur with both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is important to be aware of the potential long-term effects of type 2 diabetes so that you can take steps to prevent them from occurring. If you have prediabetes, it does not necessarily mean that you will develop type 2 diabetes. However, it is important to follow a treatment plan and diet and exercise routine in order to reduce your risk. Research has also shown that drinking more coffee may help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Regular monitoring of both type 2 diabetes and your blood pressure is essential in order to avoid serious health complications.
Finally, it is important to be aware of the potential for nerve damage and pain associated with type 2 diabetes. The longer you have had type 2 diabetes, the greater your risk for nerve damage.
