Diabetes - Getting started - Taking Control
 
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Overview of the Management of Diabetes

Complications

Diabetes can lead to complications particularly when there is a history of poor blood glucose control and/or high blood fats (cholesterol, triglycerides).

Smoking leads to narrowing of the blood vessels and accelerates diabetes complications.

For further information speak to your doctor, diabetes health professional or contact the Quit line or ATODS ph 4968 3858

Complications can include any or all of the following:

  • Heart disease (Coronary Vascular Disease):

    • Blood vessels supplying vital oxygen and nutrients to the heart can become blocked or damaged, resulting in angina or a heart attack
  • Strokes:

    • Strokes can occur when the blood supply to the brain becomes blocked or damaged. This can result in permanent or temporary loss of speech or vision and paralysis on one or both sides of the body. Ensure your doctor checks your blood pressure regularly. Raised blood pressure is known as hypertension and must be treated by your doctor.
  • Foot ulceration:

    • People with diabetes often develop poor blood flow and/or reduced sensation to their feet. As a result, serious injuries such as ulceration, infection and gangrene can develop, sometimes leading to amputations. See a podiatrist if you have any problems with your feet and have a foot assessment to check nerve sensation and pulse every year.
  • Vision impairment (Retinopathy):

    • Poorly controlled diabetes can affect the small blood vessels of the eye causing partial or complete loss of vision. Every adult should visit the eye specialist for a thorough baseline examination with ongoing regular follow-ups every two years. This can be done by either an optometrist and/or ophthalmologist.
  • Kidney Damage (Nephropathy):

    • Diabetic kidney damage is usually due to changes in the small blood vessels causing protein to leak into the urine and affect the function of your kidneys. Ask your doctor to test your kidney function at least once a year, with urine and blood tests. Your doctor may prescribe you an anti-hypertensive (blood pressure) tablet to help protect your kidneys.
  • Nerve Damage (Neuropathy):

    • Prolonged high blood glucose levels can affect nerve function, causing degeneration of the nerves. This can lead to various problems i.e. painful legs (particularly overnight), decreased pain sensation, bladder problems, erectile dysfunction or gastrointestinal problems caused by delayed emptying of the stomach (diabetic gastroparesis).
  • Oral effects:

    • People with diabetes are more prone to gum problems which may lead to tooth loss. Alterations in diet may lead to increased risk of tooth decay. Infections of the skin of the mouth by fungi e.g. cracked lips are more common in diabetes. See a dentist at least every year even if you wear dentures, to minimize risks of complications in the mouth.
  • Sexual dysfunction:

    • Diabetes often causes erectile dysfunction in men. However modern treatment is available. Libido in women may also be reduced. Please discuss this with your doctor or diabetes educator. You can also contact Queensland Health for more advice – Sexual Health Unit ph 4968 3919 (no referral required)

  • Continence and Diabetes:

    • High blood glucose levels over a period of time may prevent you from emptying your bladder properly resulting in urinary incontinence. In turn this can increase the risk of developing urinary tract infections.

Remember, regular check-ups with your doctor will help detect early signs of complications and ensure prompt treatment. Most of these signs are only discovered through blood testing and special monitoring.

It is important you understand that in the early stages of complications developing, you may not experience any symptoms and/or problems. It is usually only when some level of damage has occurred, that you note any change – such as problems with sight or sexual function.

Your annual cycle of care check up with your doctor will screen for complications.


HOW DIABETES EFFECTS THE BODY AND RECOMMENDED SCREENING FOR COMPLICATIONS