- Diabetes is a chronic condition that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, kidney disease, and oral disease.
- Lifestyle changes such as exercise, dietary modifications, nerve stimulation therapy, and surgery can help manage diabetes.
- Regularly monitoring blood glucose levels is essential for managing diabetes.
- Stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or journaling, can help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
Diabetes is a lifestyle disease. In the U.S., diabetes is a leading cause of death. Genetics, lifestyle factors, and the environment cause it. For example, people who are overweight or obese, have a poor diet and physical inactivity, smoke cigarettes, and drink alcohol are more likely to develop diabetes. Here’s what you need to know about its physical symptoms and how to deal with them.
Diabetes and Your Physical Health
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s essential to understand the physical effects of diabetes as they can range from mild to severe and may even be life-threatening if left untreated. Here’s a look at some physical effects diabetes can have on your body.
Cardiovascular Disease
Diabetes dramatically increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including stroke and heart attack. This is because high blood sugar levels increase the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries and veins, which can lead to a blockage or narrowing of these pathways.
This increases the likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke. It is also important to note that having diabetes also increases your chances of developing hypertension (high blood pressure). Therefore, people with diabetes should take extra care when it comes to monitoring their cholesterol levels, eating a healthful diet, and engaging in regular physical activity.
Neuropathy
One of the most common complications associated with diabetes is neuropathy, which is nerve damage caused by uncontrolled high blood sugar levels over time. Symptoms include numbness and tingling in the hands, feet, legs, arms, and other body parts; pain; muscle weakness; fatigue; slow healing sores or wounds; vision changes or blurred vision; balance issues; digestive problems; urinary tract infections; and poor coordination.
Neuropathy can be mild or severe depending on how long you have had diabetes and how well it has been managed over time. Treatment options may include medications, lifestyle changes such as exercise and dietary modifications, nerve stimulation therapy, surgery, or other procedures such as laser treatments.
Kidney Disease
Diabetes can cause kidney damage due to increased glucose levels in the bloodstream, damaging small blood vessels in your kidneys over time. As a result, your kidneys may not be able to filter out waste products from your body like they usually would. This can lead to kidney failure if left untreated for too long.
Treatment options for diabetic nephropathy typically involve lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications, regular exercise, and medications designed explicitly for treating kidney disease in people with diabetes.
Oral Disease
People with diabetes often experience complications with their teeth and gums due to dry mouth, high levels of glucose in saliva, or poor circulation in the gums. The most common oral problems associated with diabetes include gum disease and periodontal issues. One way to deal with this is by visiting your local dentist often. They can advise you on how to care for your teeth and gums and perform regular cleanings and checkups.
Managing Diabetes
The physical effects of diabetes can range from mild to severe and may even be life-threatening if left untreated. Here are four ways you can manage diabetes in your life.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise helps control your blood sugar levels and can help you lose weight, reducing the risk of developing diabetes-related complications. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily, five days a week.
Follow a Healthful Diet
Eating healthy is one of the most critical steps in managing diabetes. Eating foods low in sugar, fats, and sodium can help control your blood glucose levels. Talk to a nutritionist or dietitian if you need help developing an appropriate meal plan.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress plays a role in diabetes management, as high-stress levels can cause your blood sugar to spike. Finding healthy ways to deal with stress, such as yoga, meditation, or journaling, can help keep you on track and reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
Monitor Blood Glucose Levels
Regularly checking your blood glucose levels is one of the best ways to manage diabetes. In addition, knowing your blood sugar level helps you adjust your diet and medication if needed. Talk with your doctor about the best way to monitor your levels at home.
Diabetes is a severe condition that can have long-term health risks. However, taking steps to manage diabetes early on can help reduce the severity of any physical effects it may have on your body. If you have diabetes, follow your doctor’s advice on managing it and managing it and taking.
