Avoid These Common Diabetes Complications

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world. If left unmanaged, it can lead to serious complications that can affect your quality of life and even be life-threatening. The good news is that you can prevent or delay these complications with proper management.

Rapid Immediate Care in Hoffman Estates, IL, near Schaumburg, offers Diabetes Management as part of our Primary Care Services. Here are some common diabetes complications to avoid.

Cardiovascular Disease

Diabetes increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart and blood vessels, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup. To prevent cardiovascular disease, it is important to manage your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking and engaging in regular physical activity can also help reduce your risk.

Neuropathy

Diabetes can also cause nerve damage, a condition known as neuropathy. Neuropathy can affect any part of the body, but it most commonly affects the feet and legs. Symptoms of neuropathy include numbness, tingling and pain in the affected area. To prevent neuropathy, it is important to control your blood sugar levels and check your feet regularly for any changes or signs of injury.

Kidney Disease

Diabetes can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney disease. When the kidneys are damaged, they can no longer filter waste from the blood properly, which can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body. To prevent kidney disease, it is important to manage your blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking and reducing your salt intake can also help reduce your risk.

Eye Disease

Diabetes can also affect the eyes, leading to a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged, leading to vision loss. To prevent diabetic retinopathy, managing your blood sugar levels and having regular eye exams is important.

Foot Complications

Diabetes can also cause foot complications, including ulcers, infections and amputations. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the feet, making them more susceptible to injury. To prevent foot complications, it is important to check your feet regularly for any changes or signs of injury. Wearing proper shoes and socks can also help reduce your risk.

Diabetes Management in Hoffman Estates, IL

Chronic diabetes is a serious condition that requires proper management to prevent complications. By managing your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels, engaging in regular physical activity and quitting smoking, you can reduce your risk of developing these common complications. Remember to check your feet regularly for any changes or signs of injury and to have regular eye exams to catch any potential problems early. With proper management, you can live a healthy and active life with diabetes.

If you have diabetes, the primary care physicians at Rapid Immediate Care can help you develop a plan to control your condition and live your best life. Contact us today to learn more.