Complications From DiabetesSkip to the navigationTopic OverviewA person is at risk for diabetes complications if blood sugar levels are often above a target range for a long period of time. Whether complications develop also may be affected by:
Keeping blood sugar at a target range lowers the risk for complications. People who have diabetes are at risk for blood vessel and nerve damage. They can develop one or several complications. Blood vessel damageHigh blood sugar causes changes in hormones and cells that can damage blood vessels or nerves, or both. Damaged blood vessels are more likely to build up plaque , increasing the risk of coronary artery disease , heart attack , and stroke . When large blood vessels are affected, complications are called macrovascular disease. Damage to small blood vessels can lead to loss of vision, kidney disease, and nerve problems throughout the body. When small blood vessels are affected, the condition is called microvascular disease.
Nerve damageNerve damage ( diabetic neuropathy ) can decrease or completely block the movement of nerve impulses or messages through organs, legs, arms, and other parts of the body. Nerve damage can affect your internal organs and your ability to feel pain when you are injured.
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ByHealthwise Staff Current as ofNovember 20, 2015
Current as of: November 20, 2015 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics & Stephen LaFranchi, MD - Pediatrics, Pediatric Endocrinology |
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