PBRC 2009 1

Complications of Diabetes

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Heart Disease Kidney Disease/Kidney

Transplantation Eye Complications Diabetic Neuropathy and Nerve

Damage

Foot Complications Skin Complications Gastroparesis and Diabetes Depression

Common Potential Complications of Diabetes

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Heart Disease

Caused by a narrowing or blocking of the blood vessels to your heart.

The vessels carry oxygen and nutrients to your heart.

Vessels can become partially or totally blocked by fatty deposits.

A heart attack - when the blood supply to your heart is reduced or cut off.

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“A” is for A1C A1C is the blood glucose check “with a memory” over the past 2 to 3 months.

“B” is for blood pressure

The ADA recommends a blood pressure below 130/80.

“C” is for cholesterol

HDL protects your heart. LDL can clog your blood vessels, leading to heart disease. Triglycerides can increase your risk for heart disease.

“The ABCs”

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Kidney Function

Kidneys act as filters. Kidneys remove waste products from the

blood. We create waste products from digestion. Normally, waste products are eliminated in

urine from the body. Protein and red blood cells are too big to

pass through the filter and remain in the blood.

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Kidney Disease

High levels of blood sugar can put extra stress on the kidneys.

After years of damage, the kidneys start to leak. Useful proteins are lost in the urine. Get a condition known as microalbuminuria.

There are several treatments at this point that may keep the kidney disease from getting worse.

When kidney disease is diagnosed later, during macroalbuminuria, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) usually follows.

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Kidney Disease

Kidneys lose their filtering ability. Waste products begin to build up in the

blood. Finally, the kidneys fail. ESRD

kidney transplant or regular visits to a dialysis clinic.

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---Eye Complications---

Higher risk of blindness. Many have minor eye disorders. Early treatments critical.

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Cataracts

The eye’s clear lens clouds, blocking light. Wear sunglasses Use glare-control lenses in

eyeglasses. Damaged lens –

remove. transplant.

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Individuals with diabetes are: 60% more likely to develop cataracts

at a younger age faster progression have problems if removal of the lens is

necessary due to the beginning stages of glaucoma

Cataracts

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Retinopathy Diabetic retinopathy is a general

term for all disorders of the retina caused by diabetes.

There are 2 major types of retinopathy: Nonproliferative: This is the common,

mild form. Proliferative: This form is much more

serious.

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There are several factors that influence whether you get retinopathy: Blood sugar control Blood pressure levels How long you have had diabetes Genetics

Almost everyone with type 1 diabetes will eventually develop nonproliferative retinopathy.

Retinopathy

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Diabetic Neuropathy & Nerve Damage

~50% have some form of nerve damage. It’s more common in those who have had

the disease for many years. Blood glucose control can help prevent

or delay nerve damage.

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2 Common Types of Nerve Damage Sensorimotor neuropathy:

Also known as “peripheral neuropathy” Can cause tingling, pain, numbness, or weakness in

hands and feet.

Autonomic neuropathy: Can lead to Digestive problems such as feeling full, nausea Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation Problems with how well the bladder works Problems having sex Dizziness or faintness Loss of the typical warning signs of a heart attack Loss of warning signs of low blood glucose Increased or decreased sweating Changes in how your eyes react to light and dark

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Foot complications

Skin Changes

Calluses

Foot Ulcers

Poor Circulation

Amputation

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Skin Changes and Calluses Skin Changes:

Dry skin and feet. Seal remaining moisture in with plain petroleum jelly,

unscented hand cream, or a similar product. It is important not to put oils or creams between toes.

Calluses Occur more often and build up faster. May need therapeutic shoes and inserts. Calluses can lead to ulcers (open sores). Never try to cut calluses yourself– this can lead to

infection. Let your healthcare provider cut them.

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Foot Ulcers and Poor Circulation

Foot Ulcers Every ulcer should be seen by your health care provider

immediately. Can result in infections, potentially leading to loss of a limb. It is important to keep off of your feet.

Poor Circulation Can lead to infection and delay healing. To improve poor circulation:

Stop smoking and keep blood pressure and cholesterol in check

Exercise improves circulation. It increases blood flow. Exercise is a good idea for individuals who currently do not have any open sores on the foot. Proper shoes are essential.

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Amputation

Highly likely in diabetes. Due to artery disease, which

reduces blood flow to the feet and nerve damage, which reduces sensation.

These can lead to ulcers and infections that may lead to amputation.

Amputations are preventable.

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Skin Complications Bacterial infections Fungal infections Itching Diabetic Dermopathy Necrobiosis Lipoidica

Diabeticorum Atherosclerosis Allergic Reactions

Diabetic Blisters Eruptive Xanthomatosis Digital Sclerosis Disseminated Granuloma

Annulare Acanthosis Nigricans

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Bacterial and Fungal Infections Bacterial infections

Many kinds. Styes. Boils. Carbuncles. Inflamed tissues are usually hot,

swollen, red, and painful. Treated by antibiotics.

Fungal infections Candida albicans is a yeast-like

fungus. Leads to common fungal infections. Can be treated by medication.

Stye

Athlete’s foot

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Acanthosis Nigricans

Acanthosis Nigricans This is a condition in which tan or brown raised

areas appear on the sides of the neck, armpits, and groin. Usually strikes people who are overweight. The best treatment is to lose weight. Some creams can help the spots look better.