In order to better understand diabetes 2 complications, it is important to have a good understanding of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that occurs when the cells in the body are unable to absorb the insulin hormone.

The insulin hormone is made by the pancreas and it is used to help the fat and muscle cells in the body to absorb and metabolize blood glucose properly. When the cells become resistant to the insulin hormone, type 2 diabetes is diagnosed.

Type 2 diabetes can be treated and even cured with lifestyle changes, exercise, and medication. However, if type 2 diabetes is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications and even death. There are several different types of diabetes 2 complications. It is important to be aware of the complications, so you know what to watch for.

Types of Diabetes 2 Complications

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Most people have experienced gastrointestinal problems or upset sometime in their lives. This is no different with people with diabetes. However, according to the Diabetes Journal, it has recently been discovered that hyperglycemia and other diabetic complications can lead to diabetes and diarrhea. There are many diabetes symptoms, diarrhea being one of them, that clue you into the fact that your diabetes is not being controlled well.

Considering that nutrition, absorption, and our diet plays a huge role in our overall health, it should not come as a surprise that a metabolic disorder can and will lead to GI complications of the disorder is not well controlled. Diarrhea with diabetes is not uncommon and it can be either an acute complication or a chronic complication. In many cases, people start off with an acute episode and it leads to a chronic problem, much like a domino effect.

There are …

There are many complications that can occur when a person with diabetes is not able to control the condition efficiently. One such complication is diabetes and foot problems. Diabetes related foot problems occur when the body starts to suffer from a condition known as neuropathy.

Neuropathy affects the circulation to the limbs and extremities of the body. It also affects the nervous system. When this occurs, the feet become particularly vulnerable. Diabetes and foot problems can lead to amputation if it is not treated quickly and effectively.

In order to better understand diabetic neuropathy, it is important to understand diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition that occurs when the insulin hormone is not produced or used properly. The insulin hormone is produced by the pancreas. It is used by the fat and muscle cells in the body to absorb and metabolize blood sugar properly. When the pancreas …

Diabetic amputation can be necessary when diabetes is not controlled well. This condition is often times the result of diabetic neuropathy, which occurs when the diabetes is not controlled well and it starts affecting the peripheral nervous system. It is important to understand diabetes mellitus in order to understand diabetic neuropathy amputation.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition that occurs when the body is unable to absorb and metabolize blood glucose efficiently due to problems with the production or absorption of the insulin hormone. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas. When the pancreas is unable to produce a sufficient amount of insulin, type 1 diabetes occurs. If the fat and muscle cells become resistant to insulin, type 2 diabetes is diagnosed.

If diabetes goes untreated or is not controlled well, it can lead to problems with all of the body processes, including the nervous system. If …

Diabetic kidney disease can be a life threatening condition. If diabetes mellitus goes undiagnosed, or is not treated properly, it can lead to diabetic kidney disease, kidney failure, and even death. To better understand this condition, it is important to understand diabetes mellitus.

There are two types of diabetes mellitus. Both types of diabetes can lead to chronic kidney disease. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition that causes an increase in blood sugar due to insulin deficiency or insulin resistance.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (aka. juvenile diabetes or insulin dependent diabetes) occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce an adequate amount of the insulin hormone. This condition is usually diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (aka. adult onset diabetes or insulin resistant diabetes) occurs when the fat and muscle cells become resistant to the insulin hormone. This condition is typically diagnosed in adults and tends …

In order to understand diabetic macular edema treatment, it is necessary to understand the cause and condition of diabetic macular edema. This condition is extremely serious and can cause permanent blindness.

Diabetic macular edema is caused by untreated or poorly treated hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Untreated diabetes causes complications to the entire body including the eyes. In the case of diabetic macular edema, proteins and fluid fill up behind the macula (the center area of the retina). This causes swelling behind the eyeball. Swelling in this area can be seriously damaging, because that is where the cones of the eye are. These cones give us the ability to see details, color, and form.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, and you are noticing any changes in your vision, contact your physician and eye doctor immediately. If diabetic related eye conditions go untreated, it can quickly lead to blindness …

The combination of gastroparesis and diabetes can be a scary one, and let’s face it; the symptoms of this condition will make you down right miserable. It becomes difficult and painful to eat, and vomiting, diarrhea, and heartburn are just a few of the daily symptoms you can expect. It can be difficult to understand why or how diabetes can cause such horrible stomach problems. Believe it or not, gastroparesis and diabetes are connected when blood sugar is not controlled well and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) occurs frequently.

According to the American Diabetes Association, hyperglycemia related to diabetes can cause neuropathy, which is nerve damage. This nerve damage is just one of many extensive complications that can occur from undiagnosed or poorly controlled blood sugar. When the neuropathy (nerve damage) occurs in the stomach, this causes extremely slow digestion, which is known as diabetes gastroparesis.

Diabetes related gastroparesis is an …

Most people who receive this diagnosis are left asking, “What is diabetic gastroparesis?” According to the American Diabetes Association, the diabetic gastroparesis definition is “a type of neuropathy (nerve damage) in which food is delayed from leaving the stomach.”

Diabetic gastroparesis is a condition that typically occurs when diabetes is not well controlled and a person with diabetes has been suffering from hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) causes severe damage to all of the systems of the body, including the nervous system. When nervous system damage occurs in the stomach, diabetic gastroparesis occurs.

Based on information from the International Diabetes Association, diabetes gastroparesis caused a delay in the digestion of food. This can cause extremely uncomfortable symptoms. It is important to get treatment for gastroparesis right away, which includes getting your diabetes under control. If this condition goes untreated, it can lead to more severe complications, including …

Diabetes mellitus is a serious disease that can cause illnesses and even death. If you have been diagnosed with this disease, you need to be aware of the complications of diabetes mellitus. Some people suffer from chronic complications of diabetes and others suffer from acute complications of diabetes.

It is most common to experience complications of untreated diabetes. There are several types of complications related to diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, the most common complications of diabetes include:

• Nephropathy (kidney disease)
• PAD (peripheral artery disease)
• Neuropathy (nervous system disease, numbness, tingling)
• Heart Disease
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Ketoacidosis
• Gastroparesis
• Retinopathy (vision problems)
• Hearing loss

If you have any of these complications of diabetes mellitus, it is important to seek treatment and follow the protocol developed for you. Serious complications and even death can occur if these complications are left untreated.

Long Term Complications Of Diabetes

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Diabetes and amputation are connected when diabetes is not controlled well and it leads to circulation and nervous system issues within the body. To better understand how these two things are related, it is important to have a good understanding of the definition of diabetes mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that occurs when the body is unable to produce or utilize the insulin hormone properly. The insulin hormone is produced by the pancreas. If the pancreas is unable to produce the insulin that the body needs, type I diabetes mellitus (juvenile onset or insulin dependent diabetes) is diagnosed. If the pancreas produces enough insulin but the fat and muscle cells are unable to use the hormone, type II diabetes mellitus (adult onset or insulin resistant) is diagnosed.

Diabetes Amputation Causes

Regardless of the type of diabetes diagnosed, if the condition is not controlled well and blood …

There is a definite connection between diabetes and hyperglycemia. In fact, hyperglycemia can be one of the warning signs that somebody has diabetes mellitus. Hyperglycemia means high blood sugar. Blood sugar levels can be measured fasting and after eating.

According to the American Diabetes Association, when fasting blood sugar levels are over 100 it is considered hyperglycemia. After eating, hyperglycemia may be diagnosed if blood sugar levels are over 150. Hyperglycemia can be a symptom of diabetes. It can also be an indication that diabetes is not being controlled well. Hyperglycemia without diabetes is possible. However, the body typically does an excellent job of keeping blood sugar within normal levels. Thus, hyperglycemia is usually a symptom of something else, such as stress, diabetes or kidney problems.

Diabetes mellitus is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to produce or utilize the insulin hormone properly. The pancreas is …

Diabetic hypoglycemia is a serious condition that can lead to organ damage, brain damage, coma and even death. Hypoglycemia is the medical term for low blood sugar. It is important to understand diabetes to better understand diabetic hypoglycemia.

Diabetes is a metabolic condition that can occur one of two ways. Type I diabetes (aka – insulin dependent or juvenile onset) occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Type II diabetes (aka – insulin resistant or adult onset) occurs when the cells in the body become resistant to insulin.

Insulin is a hormone that helps the fat and muscle cells absorb and utilize blood glucose (sugar) effectively. When the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the cells are unable to use the insulin, blood sugar issues and diabetes occur.

Diabetic hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop in a person with diabetes. This can be caused from skipping …

If you have been wondering, “what is diabetic peripheral neuropathy,” you have come to the right place. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a nervous system disorder that occurs when the peripheral nerves in the body are negatively affected by poor control of blood sugar. In order to better understand peripheral diabetic neuropathy, it is important to understand diabetes mellitus.

There are two primary types of diabetes mellitus. Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce a sufficient amount of insulin to metabolize blood sugar properly. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the fat and muscle cells in the body become resistant to the insulin hormone. The insulin hormone assists the cells in the body with absorbing and metabolizing blood sugar properly. When this does not occur, blood sugar levels increase dramatically and can cause serious complications and injuries to all body systems, which can lead to …

There is a definite link between diabetes and high blood pressure. The link between high blood pressure and diabetes can cause many other complications including kidney disease, eye disease, stroke, and even heart failure. Diabetes actually increases the risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease, and peripheral artery disease.

The relationship between high blood pressure and diabetes is based on the fact that diabetes causes harm to the arteries by hardening them, which is also known as atherosclerosis. This condition can lead to complications which will eventually lead to death, if left untreated.

Does Diabetes Cause High Blood Pressure?

If you or somebody you love has diabetes, you may be asking, “Can diabetes cause high blood pressure?” Although that is a complicated question to answer, the bottom line is that diabetes can cause enough damage to the cardiovascular system to make it 60% easier to end …

Diabetes and kidney disease are extremely serious diseases, and both can be fatal if left untreated. It is possible to contract kidney disease from diabetes. In order to better understand the connection, it is important to understand diabetes and the role the kidneys play with this disease.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition that occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or when the cells are unable to utilize insulin (type 2 diabetes). The insulin hormone is used by the fat and muscle cells in the body to help absorb and metabolize blood glucose.

When the cells in the body are unable to absorb and metabolize blood sugar, the glucose levels rise and this can cause serious damage to the body. This is when the kidneys try to pick up the slack to rid the blood of the excess sugar.

The kidneys are the …

Diabetes and retinopathy are serious conditions that can lead to blindness if left untreated. People with uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes are at much higher risk for developing retinopathy. The best way to prevent retinopathy related to your diabetes is to control your blood sugar well, and avoid hyperglycemia.

After you are diagnosed with diabetes, your physician will give you a treatment plan to follow. This plan will allow you to control your blood sugar levels. This is necessary to maintain good health and prevent damage from occurring throughout the body.

When the treatment plan is not followed or it is unsuccessful, it can lead to all types of serious complications, which can lead to death. One of these serious complications is retinopathy. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and you notice any changes in your vision, it is imperative that you see a doctor to have your vision …

Receiving a diagnosis of diabetes can be frightening enough. When you combine diabetes and heart disease, the results can be catastrophic. The diabetes and heart disease statistics are downright scary.

According to the American Diabetes Association, statistics regarding heart disease and diabetes include:

• Information taken in 2004 showed that over 65% of death certificates related to diabetes also listed heart disease as a cause of death for people over the age of 65.
• Information taken in 2004 showed that over 15% of death certificates related to diabetes also listed stroke as a cause of death for people over the age of 65.
• Adults with a diabetes diagnosis are two to four times more likely to die of a heart related condition than those without diabetes.
• Adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to suffer from a stroke than those without diabetes.

These coronary heart disease …

Diabetic complications occur when blood glucose is not controlled properly. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition that occurs when the body is unable to produce or absorb insulin properly. This causes a condition called hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), which damages the organs, systems, and tissues in the body.

The main cause of diabetic complications is poor control of blood sugar. High blood sugar is extremely damaging to the body over long periods of time. Thus, if you have been diagnosed with either type of diabetes mellitus (type 1 or type 2), it is imperative that you follow your treatment plan and maintain good control of your blood sugar. You need to make sure that your blood glucose stays within normal limits. If you are having a difficult time controlling your blood sugar, you should contact your physician to discuss alternate treatment plans or to discuss adjusting your medications.

Diet and …

Based on information and statistics obtained from the American Diabetes Association, up to 60% of people with type 2 diabetes also suffer from hypertension, along with other co-morbid medical conditions that lead to a metabolic syndrome diagnosis. Diabetes and hypertension are much more prevalent in people who suffer from obesity.

Hypertension is not as common in people with type 1 diabetes, however; the American Diabetes Association does report that up to 20% of type 1 diabetics also suffer from hypertension.

There are many complications that can occur from diabetes and hypertension including plaque buildup in the arteries, heart failure, kidney failure, blindness, and stroke. Diabetes actually increases the risk of coronary artery disease, hypertension, peripheral artery disease, and cardiovascular disease. Many people wonder, “Is my diabetes causing hypertension?” Let’s take a closer look at this connection.

Can Diabetes Cause Hypertension?

It is possible for diabetes to lead to hypertension …

Diabetes and hypoglycemia are conditions related to blood sugar that could lead to severe complications and even death, if not treated properly. Hypoglycemia is the medical term that refers to low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia can be caused by diabetes.

There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is also known as insulin dependent or juvenile onset diabetes. This type of diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough of the insulin hormone. The insulin hormone is used by the fat and muscles cells to absorb and metabolize blood sugar properly. Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood.

Type 2 diabetes is also known as insulin resistant or adult onset diabetes. This type of diabetes occurs when the muscle and fat cells become resistant to the insulin hormone. When this happens, the cells are unable to absorb blood sugar properly.

With both types of diabetes, …

Among the complications associated with diabetes is the occurrence of diabetic leg problems. Diabetics tend to have poor circulation, which leads to the restriction of veins. This makes it difficult for the necessary amount of blood to flow to the legs and feet. Because of this, many patients complain of burning in their lower legs and feet. Strong pain is another side effect. But diabetic leg problems don’t stop there. Often, when people with the disease experience small cuts on their lower legs and feet, their poor circulation results in diabetic foot ulcers. This is because a sufficient amount of blood is not reaching the sores to heal them as fast as a normal person’s skin heals. This allows the unhealed wound more time for an infection to set in.

Numbness is also a diabetic leg problem that people commonly experience. If left untreated, it can cause severe health …

Diabetic retinopathy complications are a common side effect associated with diabetes because blood vessels in the retina often become restricted, leading to vision problems. A vitreous hemorrhage may occur because of this, which means blood vessels may leak into the clear substance that is found in the center of the eye. Although this doesn’t normally cause permanent vision loss, vision can be compromised by dark spots or “floaters” for as little as a few weeks or as long as a few months.

One of the other diabetic retinopathy complications associated with the disease is the potential for retinal detachment. This happens because the damaged blood vessels in the eye can produce scar tissue that can in some cases pull the retina away from the back of the eye. Severe vision loss, spots in the vision or floating vision are signs that retinal detachment may have occurred.

Glaucoma is another complication …

Many people do not realize that cardiovascular problems are associated with diabetes. However, heart issues are one of the major complications of diabetes. A person with diabetes is at an elevated risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, a person with diabetes is more than twice as likely to have a heart attack or stroke than a person who does not have the illness.

The reason why heart problems are among the top major complications of diabetes is because a person with the disease is likely to have blood vessels that are blocked or narrowed by excess fat deposits. When the blood supply to a person’s heart becomes totally blocked, a heart attack will occur. The same thing can happen to blood vessels in the brain.

Monitoring one’s blood pressure is an important preventative measure for a diabetic to take …

There are many potential complications of diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that can harm many other parts of the body it is not taken care of and monitored in the right way. Many of these problems develop because the blood vessels in a diabetic person become restricted with excess fat deposits. This can cause many problems in a person’s overall condition of health. One of the most serious potential complications of diabetes is its ability to cause problems with the heart. A person with diabetes is more likely to experience a heart attack or stroke than people who do not have the disease. They are also at an elevated risk of developing heart disease.

The kidneys are another essential part of the body that can experience the potential complications of diabetes. Excess glucose in the blood has a negative effect on kidneys because the become overwhelmed and fail while …

The short term complications of diabetes may not last forever, but they can still be life-altering. Hypoglycemia is one of the short term complications of diabetes. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels become too low. Taking in too much insulin, exercising too much or not eating enough are a few things that can cause hypoglycemia. Some of the symptoms that may be experienced as a result of hypoglycemia are palpitations, sweating, confusion, feeling shaky, a pounding heart, a feeling of anxiety, irritability and tingling lips.

If an incident of hypoglycemia occurs, the patient should drink orange juice or another type of sweet juice. Ways to prevent hypoglycemia from occurring include not skipping meals or taking certain medications (such as aspirin) that can contribute to the short term complications of diabetes.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is another one of the short term complications of diabetes. This is also referred to as DKA and …

Diabetes calluses are a big concern to those affected by the disease. Diabetics experience more foot calluses than people who do not have the disease because they are able to build up faster due to high-pressure areas under the foot. The reason why diabetes calluses are so dangerous is because they can be the beginning of a diabetic foot ulcer if not treated fast and effectively. If a callus is not trimmed, it will get thick, break down and become an open sore.

It is critical that a diabetic person never takes diabetic calluses lightly. A foot ulcer can ultimately lead to the amputation of a limb if not properly dealt with. Around 80,000 diabetes related amputations take place every year, and mortality is another possibility.

Diabetes Calluses should never be trimmed at home. A doctor or other health care provider should cut calluses. There are some products available that …

Diabetic skin ulcers are among the most common complications associated with diabetes. They occur so frequently in those who have the disease because they experience a slow or delayed healing process when they get minor cuts or scrapes. This is attributed to a decreased blood flow. Because the healing process takes so much longer for a diabetic, infection has more time to set in.

Diabetic skin ulcers are also a common occurrence because people who have the condition experience numbness in the feet and legs, so they may not be aware right away if they obtain a scrape or skin irritation. The following occurrences commonly lead to foot ulcers: animal or insect bites, burns, blisters and scratches, calluses or corns, shoes that rub against the feet and stepping on a sharp object. A diabetic’s home should always be picked up and free of obstacles that could put their feet in …

Uncontrolled Diabetes complications can pose a serious threat to those affected. When a person finds out they have diabetes, steps should be taken to get the situation under control so that future problems are less likely to arise. However, sometimes the disease is not cared for properly, causing uncontrolled diabetes complications. Uncontrolled diabetes takes place when a person does not take medicines prescribed by a doctor as directed or follow meal plans or regular exercise routines. Diabetes can also become uncontrolled in patients who have an illness or are living under conditions of high stress. When diabetes is uncontrolled, complications are sure to occur. Short-term problems are a possibility, such as hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, or diabetic ketoacidosis.  Long-term uncontrolled diabetes complications are also a risk.

A person with uncontrolled diabetes can cause glucose levels to rise, which causes damage to tiny capillaries that are found throughout the body. This is what …

Diabetics have an increased chance of obtaining a fungal infection. Diabetes fungal infection is most likely to occur on the places of the body that are more susceptible to moisture such as the mouth, below the breasts, armpits and foreskin.. Keeping skin clean and dry, especially in the skin fold areas, is an essential preventative measure when it comes to diabetes fungal infections.

Diabetes and fungal infection go hand in hand. Athlete’s foot is one of the most common diabetes fungal infections. This causes scaly skin between toes and feet. Athlete’s foot is a condition that causes a burning sensation and severe itching on the feet. This is an especially dangerous type of diabetes fungal infection because it can cause open sores on the feet that can lead to ulcers. The skin of a diabetic does not heal as fast as a person without the disease, so infection is more …

Diabetes leg problems are typically grouped together because they are such a common occurrence for people with the disease. Some diabetics develop nerve disorders (neuropathies) as a result of the illness. These nerve disorders are the reasons why diabetes leg problems are such a common issue that diabetics face. When tingling sensations are felt in the legs of a diabetic, it could very possibly mean that diabetic neuropathy has developed. The tingling can range from fairly gentle to more sharp and painful. It can cause a lot of discomfort in those affected.

People who suffer from leg problems with diabetes will sometimes experience cramps. This symptom is most common in older adults. Weakness in the legs is often followed by the onset of cramps. Sometimes people are unable to get out of a chair without assistance when cramps are present. Skin numbness and sensitivity are other diabetes leg problems. Although …

Depression and anxiety are thought to be a couple of the diabetes mental problems that people experience. This is likely because living with a serious condition such as diabetes can have a negative effect on a person’s mental state. It can be very difficult for an individual to adjust to the changes that an illness such as diabetes requires. A person may experience constant fear that their blood sugar is or will soon be thrown out of whack, opening them up to a variety of potential complications.

According to the American Diabetes Association, there is a link between diabetes and mental health problems. In many cases, diabetes mental problems were present themselves when people have a difficult time coping with their every day life with the disease. The disorder presents a constant struggle for patients to keep blood glucose levels under control, which can be stressful for the people who …

When a person has diabetes, skin care should be made a top priority. Diabetic pressure ulcers are among the complications commonly experienced in diabetic patients. A pressure ulcer is different than a regular foot ulcer that is so often associated with diabetes. The most common type of foot ulcers occur as a result of poor circulation that causes a delayed healing process in skin lesions. This makes a person more likely to contract an infection, which can lead to amputation or even death. Because of this, even the tiniest scrapes and cuts can pose a real threat to diabetes patients. Diabetes pressure ulcers are slightly different, but they are just as serious and must be treated effectively to avoid serious complications.

Diabetes pressure ulcers occur when skin is broken down as a result of constant pressure that is being placed on it. Being bedridden or in a wheelchair makes a …

Eye problems are common in people with diabetes, but older patients with the disease are the most likely to experience the ocular complications of diabetes. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Although vision loss can be temporary in patients with diabetes, irreversible blindness is also a potential risk associated with the disease.

People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing cataracts, which is a clouding of the eye lens that causes people not to be able to see things clearly. According to information from the American Diabetes Association, a person with diabetes is around 60 percent more likely to develop a cataract than a person who is not diabetic. If a person experiences blurred vision, poor night vision, glares off of objects, distorted vision or an inability to distinguish between similar colors, cataracts may be present.

The American Diabetes Association also reports that diabetics are …

When people refer to the renal complications of diabetes, they are talking about kidney issues associated with the disease. The reason why the kidneys are so vulnerable in patients with diabetes is because when blood sugar levels reach high levels, the kidneys can become overworked. This causes them to malfunction or fail altogether. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes can be slowed with treatment when it is discovered soon enough. A late stage kidney disease diagnosis usually results in kidney failure.

There are millions of tiny blood vessels that live inside the kidneys. They act as filters for waste. When kidneys do not function properly, they lose their ability to do their job. When this happens, kidney disease is the result. It is important to know the symptoms of kidney failure in order to get it diagnosed properly and begin treatment. Knowing about the disease in its early …

Diabetes can have an effect on several parts of the body, and skin changes in diabetes are no exception. There are dozens of skin conditions linked to diabetes. In fact, skin problems are one of the first signs many people show before being diagnosed with the disease. Like other difficulties associated with this illness, skin changes in diabetes occur because of an unhealthy amount of glucose in the blood.

Sometimes people experience allergic reactions on their skin as a result of insulin injection. This is why it is so important for an insulin-dependent diabetic patient to be on the lookout for rashes or bumps around the portions of skin where the medicine is injected. Sometimes these reactions require emergency treatment if they are severe enough. If a person believes they are experiencing skin changes in diabetes due to medications they are taking, a health care provider should be consulted immediately.…

Because diabetics experience higher levels of blood glucose, the blood vessels can become damaged. This has a negative effect on diabetes blood circulation. Diabetes blood circulation is one of the most dangerous complications associated with the disease. Diabetes causes blood vessels to harden, narrow or experience complete blockage. Poor diabetes blood circulation causes wounds to heal slower, giving them a higher susceptibility to the onset of infection. This sometimes leads to gangrene, amputation and mortality. Heart disease and stroke are other problems that can arise from diabetes blood circulation problems.

The feet are also in danger when diabetes blood circulation becomes impaired. Blood vessel damage in the feet has a domino effect, and it may cause tissue damage. When feet experience even the most minor cuts and scrapes, they have a high risk of becoming infected because of the delayed healing process of a diabetic’s skin. Throw in diabetic …

Diabetic glaucoma is one of the many eye problems that is associated with the diabetes. Glaucoma is so dangerous because it is the leading cause of worldwide irreversible blindness. People with the disease are two times as likely to develop glaucoma than those who do not have diabetes. Diabetics are at an increased risk for developing glaucoma because a buildup of pressure may cause the fluid inside the eye not to be able to drain properly. When this occurs, optical blood vessels nerves can become damaged, leading to changes in vision and sometimes vision loss.

The Different Types of Diabetic Glaucoma

There are several different types of glaucoma, two of which are most associated with diabetic glaucoma. Unfortunately both types can lead to blindness if not diagnosed and treated early enough.

The most common form (at least 90 percent of all cases) is called open-angle glaucoma and affects …

Many people who have type two diabetes experience the development of diabetic boils on their skin. This is just one of the skin problems commonly associated with the disease. Because insulin in the body of a diabetic remains unused, it is believed that boils develop as a result because the body is trying to rid itself of materials it does not need. Acne is another common problem associated with diabetes, and the cause is believed to be the same. Also, the immune system of a diabetic is weaker than that of a non-diabetic, so fighting off the bacteria that is caused by boils can be a challenge.

Recognizing a diabetic boil is important so that timely treatment can be administered. There are many pictures of diabetic boils available online, so they can be referenced if a person things they may have one flaring up on their skin. When diabetic boils …

Diabetes chronic renal failure is something that everyone with type 2 diabetes should be concerned about. Basically, renal is another word for kidney. Diabetes chronic renal failure is a term that refers to the malfunction of the kidneys as a result of type 2 diabetes. Along with the many other complications associated with diabetes, the kidneys are also at risk of becoming damaged as a side effect of the disease. The reason why people with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing kidney problems like diabetes chronic renal failure is because of the disease’s negative impact on the tiny blood vessels that are found throughout the entire body. This can cause problems for the eyes, strokes and more, including diabetes chronic renal failure.

The blood vessels in the kidneys act as filters and are responsible for removing a lot of different kinds of wastes from the body. When diabetes …

The long term complications of diabetes mellitus are many, but most of them can be prevented or delayed by properly managing the disease. Repeated spikes in blood sugar (hyperglycemia) over a long period of time are what eventually lead to the long term complications of diabetes mellitus. If a person maintains a lifestyle of healthy blood glucose levels, they will be much less likely to experience the most devastating effects of diabetes. Because diabetes can have a negative effect on the tiny blood vessels housed throughout the body, some vital organs do not get the nourishment and blood flow they need to function properly. When this happens, the eyes, kidneys and heart are at risk. The nerves and gums are also susceptible to experiencing long-term complications of diabetes mellitus.

The eyes can experience retinopathy, cataracts or glaucoma as a result of diabetes. These conditions can lead to irreversible vision loss. …

There are many different forms of diabetes eye damage. This is commonly referred to as diabetic retinopathy. According to the Livestrong foundation, retinopathy is the most common long-term complication associated with diabetes mellitus. Diabetes eye damage occurs when the blood vessels that supply the eye’s retina become damaged, inflamed, leak fluid or experience abnormal growth. The retina is a light-sensitive membrane that coats the back of the eye. When it is not being supplied properly from blood vessels, vision is affected. It is estimated that up to half of diabetic patients who have the disease for ten years experience some degree of diabetes eye damage.

Cataracts are another form of diabetes eye damage. Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes clouded or thickened. People who have diabetes mellitus are at a higher risk of developing cataracts because of the blood vessel damage that so often takes place. …

Diabetes poor circulation is one of the most common things that patients experience. It is also among the most dangerous. It can lead to sores that take a long time to heal, opening them up to a higher chance of experiencing infection. If a wound gets infected due to diabetes poor circulation it may have to be amputate in extreme circumstances. Poor circulation can also cause stroke, heart attacks and heart disease. It is estimated that a third of diabetics who are over 50 years old have a diabetes poor circulation disease called peripheral artery disease.  This condition causes poor circulation in the feet and legs. Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral vascular disease.

Many people ask themselves this question: “Why does diabetes cause poor circulation?” To sum it up, blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the feet and legs often become hardened and thickened …

The Internet is a handy tool to look up information on any topic one can imagine, but a journal of diabetes and its complications is also handy to have around. Because diabetics can experience sudden and unexpected hazardous symptoms, keeping a journal of diabetes and its complications in places that do not have Internet access is a good idea that can save a life. For example, keeping this information in a diabetic’s vehicle is an ideal place to store a journal of diabetes and its complications so that people who may be travelling with the person will know how to act when certain emergency situations associated with the disease occur.

A journal of diabetes and its complications can be obtained on Science Direct’s website. The pages can be purchased and downloaded in PDF format. From there, a person can print the pages off and keep them in an accessible location. …

The signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis are many. This is a serious condition associated with the disease and in extreme circumstances can lead to a diabetic coma. Diabetic Ketoacidosis occurs when a person’s body experiences a shortness of food or insulin. It can also take place if a person experiences a bad reaction to insulin. When the body does not have enough insulin, ketones are produced and appear in the urine. This provides a warning sign that a person is getting sick as a result of their diabetes. When the levels of ketones get too high, a patient is at risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis, also known as DKA for short.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is more common in people with type 1 diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. However, this condition may occur in persons affected with type 2 diabetes mellitus as well. Diabetic ketoacidosis is very serious and …

Diabetes and dry skin are often linked. Many people ask, “does diabetes cause dry skin?” The answer to that question is yes. Diabetes causes poor blood circulation, which is the culprit in many of the complications related to the disease. Dry itchy skin diabetes commonly happens on the feet and legs. In fact, the itchiest areas may occur on the lower parts of the legs. Dry skin on feet diabetes is such a common occurrence because the feet experience the worst effects of bad circulation.

Diabetes and dry skin may seem harmless, but it can actually lead to severe infections if not taken care of in a timely and appropriate manner. For example, dry itchy skin diabetes can lead to open cuts and sores that heal slowly as a result of the disease. Because of the slow healing process of wounds in people with diabetes, they are more susceptible to …

Diabetes and hearing loss are linked in many cases. But how common is it? The American Diabetes Association acknowledges that out of the 26 million people in the U.S. who have diabetes, an estimated 34.5 million have some type of hearing loss. There are certain signs that a person is experiencing loss of hearing. If a diabetic person exhibits the following symptoms, diabetes hearing loss may be happening to them.

If a person often asks people to repeat themselves during conversations, diabetes and hearing loss may be the problem. If a person has difficulty experiencing conversations or believes other people are mumbling when they are not. Another sign of hearing loss and diabetes is when a person has trouble haring in places that have a noisy atmosphere. Trouble hearing high pitch sounds (such as the voices of women and children) may occur. Turning up the volume on electronic devices such …

Because of its potentially life-threatening complications, diabetic ketoacidosis causes side effects that should never be ignored. A person who is experiencing dehydration is especially susceptible to such symptoms (dehydration is one of the most prevalent diabetic ketoacidosis causes). When a person is experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis, they may appear ill in their over-all appearance and demeanor. They may also break out in dry, itchy skin or have a dry mouth.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis causes an increased heart rate in those experiencing the condition, as well as reports of low blood pressure. Breathing is also affected by diabetic ketoacidosis. Although it is likely to increase, some patients experience shortness of breath, and a fruity breath odor may present itself. Vomiting, confusion and loss of appetite may also be signs that a person is experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis. Other symptoms that signify diabetic ketoacidosis are no different than those of regular diabetes. For example, unquenchable …

The potential complications of gestational diabetes are many, but the good news is that they can usually be avoided when the mother is pro-active about her health. When a woman is dedicated to teaming up with her healthcare providers during pregnancy to make sure everything goes smooth, it can make a world of difference when fighting against the complications of gestational diabetes.

Gestational diabetes is a term that refers to the condition a pregnant woman is in when she is a diabetic. Gestational diabetes can happen when a woman who is expecting a child already had diabetes before she conceived. Sometimes, however, gestational diabetes is a side effect of pregnancy. Often, gestational diabetes wears off after a woman gives birth, but sometimes the woman has diabetes for life. After a woman gives birth, tests will be administered a few months down the road to make sure blood glucose levels have …

Diabetic ketoacidosis, also referred to as DKA, is a potentially dangerous side effect of diabetes, but it does not only affect adults. Diabetic ketoacidosis in children is also a common occurrence. DKA happens when the body experiences a deficiency in insulin, the hormone that the cells use for fuel. When this happens, the body will begin to drain other resources in the body to get energy. The hormone adrenaline will kick in, which is when DKA becomes dangerous because it will begin to break down fatty acids from muscles, fat and liver cells, converting them to insulin. According to Medscape Reference, an online resource that addresses drugs, diseases and procedures, diabetic ketoacidosis in children “is the most important cause of mortality and severe morbidity.”

A child who may be experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis are susceptible to experiencing symptoms in many areas of the body. For example, their digestive system may be …

Many of the millions of people affected with diabetes will experience diabetic ulcers on feet at some point in their lives. This happens mostly because of the devastating effects that diabetes has on the blood vessels. Because the tiny blood vessels that are found throughout the body can become restricted or completely blocked, a diabetic person is prone to having poor circulation. This can lead to diabetic ulcers on feet because the decreased circulation makes wounds much slower to heal than a person who does not have the disease. The tiniest cuts and scrapes can have disastrous outcomes if not detected early enough and treated appropriately.

A person who has diabetes is prone to experience numbness in the limbs as a result of bad circulation. Because of this, diabetic ulcers on feet are more likely to occur because a person may not notice when their skin has been punctured due …

Boils and diabetes are commonly experienced together by patients, and there is a good reason for it. Diabetes boils are not completely understood by the medical community. There are many questions left unanswered when it comes to boils and diabetes. However, what we do know is that boils are most commonly associated with type 2 diabetes and form when there is a build-up of the presence of toxic materials in the body. Because diabetes is a disease that affects the immune system, it is speculated that this is the reason for the common formation of boils in people who have the condition. Diabetes also causes a hormonal imbalance within patience, which can also lead to boils due to an excess secretion of certain hormones. This can also lead to cystic acne (a severe form of the condition).

Diabetes boils form most often in the parts of the skin that have …

Chronic diarrhea is far more likely to occur in the diabetic population than in people who do not have the disease. According to eHow Health, frequent causes of Diabetic diarrhea have been reported to take place in up to 22 percent of people who have had the disease for a long period of time. It occurs most often as a side effect of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is described as a condition caused by nerve damage done to the body as a result of frequent spikes in blood glucose levels. In both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, loose bowel movements are common. Because diabetics have high blood glucose levels that they must constantly monitor and keep under control, they are more likely to eat low calorie and sugar-free foods, candies and gum. These products commonly contain sorbitol, xylitol, maltitol and mannitol. These products are thought to cause diarrhea, especially …

Many patients wonder why diabetic high blood pressure is associated with the disease. There are serious risk factors associated with diabetic high blood pressure. People with high blood pressure (whether diabetic or not) run the risk of experiencing medical complications in many parts of the body. High blood pressure, including diabetic high blood pressure, is the leading risk factor for stroke. When blood pressure reaches high levels, it can cause a break in the weakened blood vessels, causing it to leak to the brain. This is when a stroke occurs. A stroke can also happen when a blood clot blocks a narrowed artery caused by high blood pressure.

Furthermore, high blood pressure can cause a heart attack when the heart is not able to get enough oxygen. When blood becomes blocked, a heart attack results. Besides a heart attack, diabetic high blood pressure can cause congestive heart failure, or CHF. …

There’s no question that diabetes is a big factor when it comes to the development of heart disease. Diabetic heart disease is an issue that requires special attention, and for good reason. According to information released by the American Diabetes Association, 68 percent of diabetes related deaths in patients 65 and older was attributed to heart disease in 2004. The chances that a person with diabetes will experience mortality as a result of diabetic heart disease is two to four times higher than people who do not have diabetes. Diabetic heart disease is so common because of the damage that the disease does to the small blood vessels that are found throughout the body.

According to WebMD, diabetics are more likely to develop heart disease at a younger age than the rest of the population. Also, two out of three diabetics die as a result of heart attack and stroke. …

According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetic amyotrophy is a branch of neuropathy that causes pain, weakness and/or wasting in the muscles. Diabetic neuropathy describes damage done to the nerves throughout the body because of high blood glucose levels that result from the disease. Often times, symptoms take many years to develop and can vary depending on which part of the body is experiencing damaged nerves. In diabetic amyotrophy, it normally affects the nerves close to the shoulders and hips, giving it the potential to be a crippling condition. Although diabetic amyotrophy is seen in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, it is more common in those affected with type 2. According to the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, about 1 percent of people with diabetes will develop diabetic amyotrophy, and it is seen most often in older men. Diabetic amyotrophy can be diagnosed through electrodiagnoztic …

Many patients who live with diabetes at some point develop a diabetic cataract. The lens of the eye is normally clear, but cataracts cause a clouding to occur in the eye’s lens. A diabetic cataract forms as a result of diabetic retinopathy. Retinopathy is caused in diabetics because of the damage that is inflicted on the blood vessels that supply the eye’s retina. The retina is a layer of tissue that can be found at the back of the inner eye. It acts as a camera, because it changes light and images that enter the eye into nerve signals that are sent to and comprehended by the brain.

Diabetic cataracts develop slowly over a long period of time and pain is not normally associated with them. When a diabetic cataract forms, vision will gradually get worse. A person with a diabetic cataract may experience symptoms such as eye sensitivity; …

Diabetic hyperglycemia is commonly associated with both types of diabetes, but what does it mean? The American Diabetes Association defines diabetic hyperglycemia as the technical term for high blood glucose. This occurs when the body does not have enough insulin or when pancreas malfunction stops the body from using insulin properly. The normal target range for blood glucose levels during a random check should be in the low to mid 100s. If a person’s blood glucose reads 200 mg/dl or higher, a diabetes diagnosis is likely to be the result. When spikes in blood glucose (or diabetic hyperglycemia) happen, the results can be devastating, even leading to death. In fact, diabetic hyperglycemia is the leading cause of complications associated with the disease. These can include eye and skin complications as well as problems with the legs and feet. Heart disease and high blood pressure are also risk factors associated with …

Diabetic leg ulcers are a common problem associated with diabetes. They can result in serious problems if not dealt with properly. In the worst-case scenarios, a leg or a foot will require amputation. But death is also a risk factor associated with diabetic leg ulcers. Diabetic leg ulcers occur when a sore that is present on the skin does not heal properly and They are also commonly seen on the bottoms of the feet. A person is at a higher risk of getting a diabetic leg ulcer when they experience such symptoms as numbness, tingling and a burning sensation in the affected limb.

The reason why diabetics are at such a high risk of developing leg ulcers is because the diseases causes poor blood circulation throughout the body as a result of blood vessel damage that is caused by diabetes. Poor circulation also causes wounds to heal more slowly than …

There are many diabetes 1 complications that patients should be aware of. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes share some of the same symptoms and risks. To fully understand diabetes 1 complications, a person should know why the disease develops in the first place. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas malfunctions and stops creating insulin. Insulin is an essential hormone that the body needs for fuel. A person may be born with the condition, or it may develop later in life. In both cases, however, there is no known cure.

When the body does not get enough insulin, or when the body does not respond to insulin correctly, dangerous drops in blood sugar can occur. This is known as hypoglycemia. When blood sugar levels get too low (a diabetes 1 complication), cells are not able to function properly. Blood vessels and nerves are vulnerable to damage as a result …

Just about every part of the body can be adversely affected by diabetes. Diabetes eye disorders are a common problem among patients. According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, diabetes can be blamed for thousands of new cases of blindness each year. It is also the leading cause of new cases of blindness in young and old adults. These startling statistics show the importance of optical care. Every person gets only one set of eyes. It is important for everyone to keep a close watch on the eyes’ wellbeing, but it is especially important for a person with diabetes.

When the retina of the eye becomes damaged as the result of diabetes, it is a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes eye disorders happen as a result of the damage that diabetes does to the tiny blood vessels that are found throughout the body. Because the blood vessels become …

Diabetic people are likely to experience complications with their eyes. Diabetic eye problems occur for a couple of different reasons. Eye-related complications are a result of the damage diabetes does to the rest of the body. As a result, the eyes can be affected. There are a group of diabetic eye problems that can result, and these conditions are commonly referred to as diabetic eye disease. All can result in vision loss and even total blindness.  The three most common diabetic eye problems are diabetic retinopathy, cataracts and glaucoma.

Diabetic retinopathy is among the most common diabetic eye problems. It occurs when damage to the retina’s blood vessels takes place. Diabetes can damage blood vessels throughout the body, and the eyes are no exception. When the blood vessels in the retina experience damage, they become fragile, allowing blood to leak into the center of the eye. This is the point …

Information released by Diabetes Cure Web states that diabetics are almost twice as likely to experience eye problems than those who do not have the disease.  Decades of research shows that glaucoma and diabetes are associated with each other. Diabetes glaucoma occurs when fluid pressure inside the eye increases, causing the optic nerve to become damaged. As a result, the loss of vision can take place.

According to the American Health Assistance Foundation’s National Glaucoma Research Program, glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in the world. In America, 2.8 million people have been diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma. Because glaucoma often does not show symptoms until its later stages, the same number of people are estimated to be living with the disease without knowing it. In fact, 50 percent of people who have diabetes glaucoma are unaware that they have it.

Regarding adults between the ages of …

Cataract and diabetes is a common issue for people who have the disease. Once a person reaches the age of 80, they are much more likely to develop a cataract. In fact, according to the National Eye Institute, more than half of all adults in this age group either have a cataract or have had surgery to remove a cataract. Although cataracts are most likely to develop with age, diabetes increases the chances that a person will develop a diabetes cataract.

A cataract occurs when the eye’s lens becomes blurred, negatively affecting a person’s vision. Cataract and diabetes may affect both eyes, but sometimes a diabetes cataract will occur in just one eye. One popular misassumption about diabetes and cataract is that they can spread from one eye to the other. A diabetes cataract in one eye will not cause one to develop in the other eye. If a diabetes …

Many diabetic patients are unaware of their risk of developing periodontal disease, but diabetes and periodontal disease are commonly associated with one another. Periodontal disease, also known as gingivitis, is a serious infection in the gums. One of the most common symptoms of periodontal diseases is bleeding gums. When a person notices blood on their toothbrush or in the sink while brushing their teeth, it is likely that they are showing the earliest signs of gingivitis. Any time blood is present as a result of routine tooth-brushing, it is not a good sign. That would be the same as if a person’s scalp started bleeding when they were brushing their hair.

Other signs of periodontal disease include a bright red or purple appearance on the gums, gums that are tender when touched, mouth sores, swollen gums or a shiny appearance to the gums. The appearance of gums is the best …

Diabetic foot problems are among the most common complications associated with the disease. Common diabetic foot problems include foot ulcers, swelling, cuts and sores, corns, ingrown toenails and deep infections. Diabetic foot problems occur so frequently because of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a term used to described the loss of nerve function in diabetic patients. Over time, diabetics may lose some amount of feeling in their feet and legs. Because of this, they may not notice diabetic foot problems right away.

Because diabetics often experience poor circulation, their wounds have a slower healing time because blood is not able to flow through the body at the rate in which it should. As a result, wounds that take longer to heal are prone to experiencing infection. This can happen very fast in a person with diabetes. Infection is the most dangerous diabetic foot problems because it can lead to the …

Before dealing with diabetic hypertension, it is important to have a general understanding of what hypertension means. Hypertension is more commonly referred to as high blood pressure. High blood pressure occurs when blood exerts too much pressure on the walls of blood vessels. According to Everyday Health’s website, more than 73 million Americans have high blood pressure. That’s one out of every three adults. Of these, more than half do not have their blood pressure under control.

Diabetics are at an increased risk of developing diabetic hypertension because of the disease’s negative impact on the blood vessels that are found throughout the body. Diabetes causes fat deposits to block or restrict blood vessels, causing hypertension to take place when the pressure inside of them builds up. Besides diabetes, hypertension is commonly seen in people who smoke, are obese or overweight, are under a lot of stress or consume a …

Diabetes can wreak havoc all over the body, including the eyes. Diabetic vision loss is one of the most serious side effects associated with diabetes. The American Diabetes Associate reports that diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults in the United States each year. People affected with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus are at risk of developing partial or complete vision loss. Eye problems that develop as a result of diabetes are often a side effect of the blood vessel damage caused by the disease. When the blood vessels in the eye’s retina become damaged, diabetic vision can be seriously compromised. The retina is the membrane that lines the inner eyeball and is sensitive to light. It is connected to the brain by the optic nerve. Dangerous spikes in blood sugar, also known as diabetic hyperglycemia, put the eyes at risk each they …

Peripheral neuropathy is the most common side effect of diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy and diabetes is described as the nerve damage done by dangerously high blood sugar levels in a diabetic patient. Peripheral neuropathy and diabetes can cause numbness and loss of sensation to the body’s limbs. It also can cause pain in the hands, legs or feet, or cause a person not to be able to feel hot and cold temperature changes. Although blood sugar spikes can cause damage in the body’s limbs, it can also damage other parts of the body. When this happens, the damaged nerves are unable to transport messages between the brain and other body parts. When this happens, diabetic ulcers are a common consequence because it causes a decreased blood flow that causes the feet to experience a much slower healing process. It also causes a lack of feeling, so people with peripheral neuropathy and …

Diabetic eye disorders are one of the first noticeable signs of a diabetic condition. To understand eye disorders it is important to have a basic understanding of the human eye. The curved clear area at the front of the eye is the cornea, which focuses light and protects the inner eye. Behind the cornea is the anterior chamber containing a protective liquid called the aqueous humor, followed by the pupil, lens, center of the eye, and retina. The retina is responsible for recording images and sending them to the brain as electrical signals. A specialized portion of the retina responsible for seeing details is the macula.

There are three types of diabetic eye disorders each affecting a different part of the eye. Glaucoma refers to pressure in the aqueous humor, anterior chambers, and blood vessels serving the retina and optic nerve. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the …

Both a symptom and side effect of diabetes, painful urination occurs in both genders, though mostly associated with women. Known as dysuria, painful urination is most commonly associated with a urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney infection. Usually caused by the bacteria E.coli found in the colon and around the anus, UTIs often occur in women due to poor hygiene or sexual intercourse when bacteria travel from the anus to the urethra or bladder causing infection. Left untreated, bacteria can reach the kidneys causing serious infection. Men who suffer from an enlarged prostrate or kidney stones are also at an increased risk, though in general, because their urethra is longer and drier men are less prone to UTIs. Patients who suffer from painful urination or UTI may feel discomfort in the urethra, vaginal opening, lower abdomen, pelvic area, lower back (kidneys), and is accompanied by the frequent urge to urinate …

Diabetic skin complications can come in the form of commonplace skin afflictions that are aggravated by diabetes as well as skin ailments specific to those suffering from the disease. According to the American Diabetics Association as many as 33% of people suffering from diabetes will have a skin disorder or complication related to the disease and the University of Maryland Medical Center states uncontrolled glucose levels for more than five years nearly always results in diabetic skin complications as well as affecting the limbs and feet. Diabetic skin complications such as bacterial and fungal infections can afflict anyone while others such as diabetic dermopathy, necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum, diabetic blisters, and eruptive xanthomatosis afflict only those with diabetes.

Cause of Diabetic Skin Conditions

Almost all diabetic skin conditions are directly related to glucose levels and can be prevented by following the proper treatment program. Generally speaking, when glucose levels …

Carbuncles are caused by the bacteria staphylococcus aureus (s. aureus) and can affect anyone though those with diabetes are more susceptible. Diabetic carbuncles possess an increased risk for patients, as those suffering from diabetes are more vulnerable to bacterial infection as well as soft tissue damage.

Defined by Paul Auwaeter, M.D., carbuncles occur when the “interconnecting subcutaneous abscesses arising from infection of several neighboring hair follicles” create a deep and wide lesion, which may develop into ulcers.

Carbuncles typically form on the neck, shoulders, hips, and thighs where friction, pressure, moisture, and lack of hygiene often force bacteria deeper into the skin (cutis).  Additionally, carbuncles occur more frequently in men (especially the elderly population) due to a larger proportion of body hair. Due to the bacterial natural of the abscesses, carbuncles are contagious and can spread to other areas of the body. Common symptoms include fever, itching, fatigue, and general …

Diabetes retinal damage (diabetic retinopathy) occurs in both eyes and will affect most diabetic patients. Loosely defined as any damage to the blood vessels serving the light sensitive back of the eye (retina). Unlike other diabetic eye complications such as glaucoma and cataracts, diabetic retinopathy may go unnoticed at the onset though at its most severe it can lead to blindness. Progressive symptoms outlined by the Mayo Clinic are: spots or dark strings (floaters); blurriness; fluctuating vision; dark or empty areas; poor night and color vision; total loss of sight.

Those at higher risk of diabetic retinopathy are individuals with uncontrolled glucose levels, Hispanics and African-Americans, smokers, and individuals with high cholesterol and blood pressure. Pregnancy may worsen diabetic retinopathy, necessitating more frequent eye exams.

Diabetes Retinal Damage: Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is classified as either nonproliferative (NPDR) or proliferative (PDR) and categorized according to severity. …

For women with diabetes, vaginal infections (vaginitis) can become more prevalent. Infections that afflict all women such as yeast and bacterial infections can become recurrent in diabetic patients. Directly related to the amount of glucose in the body, failure to monitor blood sugar levels creates an ideal environment for the growth of candida (yeast) and bacteria as mucus secretions contain a higher level of glucose.

Typical Diabetes Vaginal Infections

It is likely that every woman will have a yeast infection once in her life. Caused by candida, symptoms of a yeast infection include burning, itching, abnormal discharge, and chafing of the thighs. Triggers for infection can vary. Hygiene plays a role as wearing polyester underwear and pantyhose can cause an infection as can scented tampons, douching, and not changing out of damp clothing immediately. In diabetic women glucose levels complicate these factors. When a woman has a yeast …

Common amongst the general population, typical fungal infections can be easily treated with over the counter drugs. When they occur in a diabetic, fungal infections can become more severe or occur with greater frequency. Common afflictions include jock itch, athlete’s foot, and in women, yeast infections. Diabetic patients are at higher risk of contracting fungal infections and suffering from chronic infections when blood glucose is not kept at normal levels. Beyond the most well known fungal infections, there are a variety of infections that can occur in the diabetic patient, which if left untreated, can become life threatening.

Diabetic fungal infections frequently manifest on the skin where fungus feeds on glucose. The condition athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is caused by trichophyton rubrum and trichophyton mentagrophytes, causing scaling and cracking between the toes and sometimes fingers. Ring worm (tinea corporis or tinea capitis) caused by dermatophytes produces circular red scaly patches.…

Responsible for a variety of infections, the staphylococcus aureus bacteria also cause carbuncles. Diabetes patients are particularly vulnerable to this type of infection and possible complications. Further, in a study done by a team of doctors in the Department of Dermatology, University of Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam, 85% of a group of 151 patients with type 2 diabetes suffered from one or more skin conditions, with bacterial infections making up the second most common occurrence of skin conditions. In a separate study from Italy, the prevalence of skin conditions in patients with type 2 diabetes is 61%. The presence of skin conditions in diabetes patients can be an indicator that treatment needs to be more aggressive and, in undiagnosed individuals, may warrant an evaluation to see if the infection is due to a pre-diabetic state.

Secondary Infection of Carbuncles Diabetes Patients Suffer 

When treating a carbuncle, diabetes patients should …

There are several skin complications related to diabetes. Folliculitis is a bacterial or fungal infection of hair follicles that occurs in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. There are two forms of folliculitis, superficial and deep. Superficial folliculitis effects the upper hair follicle causing red or pus-filled bumps around the hair follicle resembling whiteheads, pus-filled blisters that rupture, inflamed skin, and itchiness or tenderness. Deep folliculitis affects the entire hair follicle with infection based in the cutis. Symptoms are large pus-filled blisters the rupture, a large swollen mass, pain, and possible scarring.

Diabetes: Folliculitis Bacterial Infections

Several strains of bacteria cause superficial folliculitis. The most common type is caused by Staphylococcus aureus (which lives on the skin) and can breakout anywhere on the body. Colloquially known as “barber’s itch” for men, women also may experience infection after shaving their legs, armpits, or bikini area. S. aureus can also enter …

Diabetic skin changes are common amongst both type 1 and type 2 sufferers with more than a third of all patients suffering from one form. From subtle changes to serious infection, diabetes patients are more prone to a variety of conditions, particularly if blood sugar is not managed properly. Dry skin is often the first manifestation of a change in the skin and can be an indicator of an undiagnosed diabetic condition as the kidneys use water to flush excess glucose from your system, taking moisture away from other organs. Particularly affecting elderly patients, and the lower body, hands, and face, extremely dry skin can become a point of entry for bacterial and fungal infections as cuts, cracks, and scratches become inflamed and heal slowly.

Exclusive to the Diabetic: Skin Conditions

Changes in the appearance of the skin are common condition exclusive to diabetics. Acanthosis nigricans is a …

Diabetes is characterized by the way the body is able to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Therefore, metabolic complications of diabetes are inherent in all patients. The criteria for diagnosis of diabetes are classic displayed symptoms (weight loss, increased daytime glucose levels of 11.1 and higher), fasting glucose of 7.0 or higher, and a postprandial glucose test (PGTT) of 11.1 or higher. Produced by the pancrease, insulin serves multiple functions in the metabolic process. Within seconds of release, insulin increases the transport of glucose, amino acids, and potassium into cells. In minutes it begins to stimulate the synthesis of protein, preventing it’s breakdown, and activation of glycogen synthase and glycogenesis. In hours, insulin increases conversion of glucose to fatty acids (lipogenesis). Function of all things is to increase glucose uptake and use, synthesis of proteins, and storage of fats. Additionally, it reduces the release of glucose from the liver and …

Occurring on the feet and legs, there are several steps for treating diabetic ulcers. The most common causes for the formation of ulcers are, neuropathy, trauma, and peripheral arterial disease. Before the ulcer itself can be addressed any underlying infection must be treated and cleared. In a paper written by Ingrid Kruse, DPM and Steven Edelman, MD, the etiology (cause) of the majority of foot ulcers result from a minor trauma combined with neuropathy. Treatment of ulcers starts by a thorough evaluation by your doctor. This includes assessing the neurological and vascular status and examination. Neurological function is tested by sensitivity of the wound while vascular assessment tests blood flow to the area – important in the healing process. Physical aspects of the ulcer are then documented as well as a probe to determine if the ulcer is associated with a tendon, joint, or bone, and the presence of …