COMPLICATIONS OF DIABETES

Diabetes is a chronic disease and long-term complications of diabetes develop gradually. The longer one has diabetes and the less controlled blood sugar levels the higher the risk of complications. Eventually, diabetes complications may be disabling or even life-threatening.

Cardiac disease:

• Diabetes raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure
• Individuals with diabetes should maintain appropriate blood sugar levels, regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, engage in regular physical exercise, and eat a heart-healthy diet to lower the risk of cardiovascular problems

Kidney Disease (Nephropathy):

• Diabetes can cause kidney damage over time, resulting in kidney disease or possibly kidney failure.
• Individuals with diabetes should regulate their blood sugar levels, maintain appropriate blood pressure, and have frequent kidney function testing to avoid or delay the onset of nephropathy.

Eye disease (Retinopathy):

• High blood sugar levels can damage the retina's blood vessels, resulting in diabetic retinopathy leading to irreversible visual loss.
• Retinopathy can be prevented or managed by regular eye exams, ideal blood sugar control, blood pressure management, and quitting smoking.
• Other condition affecting the eye as a result of poorly controlled diabetes includes Cataracts, Glaucoma, Diabetic retinopathy, Ocular surface disorders, Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, Recurrent stye.

Nerve damage (Neuropathy):

• Diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the hands, feet, and other body regions. This condition is known as neuropathy.

Foot complications:

• Diabetes that is not well controlled can cause foot issues such as infections, ulcers often referred to as diabetic foot leading to even amputations
• Regular foot care, wearing suitable footwear, blood sugar control, and timely treatment of any foot disorders will help reduce the risk.

Skin complications:

• Diabetes increases the risk of skin infections, delayed wound healing, and fungal infections
• Preventive methods include adequate diabetes control, proper cleanliness, frequent skin checks,and quick treatment of any skin concerns

What is type 2 diabetes remission?

Remission in type 2 diabetes is described as reaching and maintaining normal blood sugar levels without the need of diabetic medication. It is critical to understand that remission does not indicate a cure, but rather a state of glycemic control in which diabetes-related problems and symptoms are greatly decreased or eliminated.

Factors Influencing Remission:

• Adopting a healthy lifestyle is the most important factor determining remission. This involves regular physical exercise, a well-balanced diet, weight control, and quitting smoking. Weight reduction, greater insulin sensitivity, and better blood sugar management can all result from these lifestyle modifications
• Medication doses may be lowered or discontinued with lifestyle modifications and improved glycemic control, contributing to remission Diabetes Duration: Early intervention and lifestyle changes offer a better chance of reaching remission, especially in people who have had type 2 diabetes for a shorter period of time
• Individual variables: The chance of obtaining remission varies depending on variables such as age, heredity, overall health, and the existence of other medical disorders

The Importance of Ongoing Lifestyle Management:

While obtaining remission is a tremendous accomplishment, it is critical to recognise that long-term care is required to maintain it.

• Ongoing Lifestyle Changes: Maintain healthy behaviours such as frequent physical exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management
• Maintain frequent check-ups with your doctor to assess your blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, and overall health. Monitoring aids in the detection of changes and enables quick response if necessary
• Stay up to date on diabetes management by using educational materials and joining support groups. Engage with healthcare specialists who can advise you on lifestyle changes and give continuing assistance
• Collaborate with your healthcare practitioner to create an individualised diabetes treatment strategy that takes your personal requirements and circumstances into consideration

Type 2 diabetes remission is possible with lifestyle changes such as frequent physical activity, good nutrition, and weight control.