Type 2 Diabetes, common known as a chronic condition, is associated with various complications that demand attention. Understanding these complications supports an informed lifestyle, notably for Germans residing in America.
At first, Heart and blood vessel problems belong to significant complications of type 2 diabetes. Increased chance of heart disease, narrowing of the arteries, stroke, and high blood pressure has been seen in those with this disease.
Next, there’s nerve damage, or ‘neuropathy.’ Too much sugar in blood can harm tiny blood vessels feeding nerves, predominantly in legs. It can cause numbness, tingling, pain, or a burning feeling in legs or feet. If left untreated, you might lose all sense of feeling in affected limbs.
Kidney damage, or ‘nephropathy,’ is another significant problem. Diabetes might harm the millions of tiny filtering units within kidneys. In the end, this can lead to kidney disease or kidney failure.
Eye damage is yet another complication. Diabetes might lead to a multitude of eye problems, some of which can cause blindness if not addressed. These conditions include retinopathy (disease of the retina that can result in vision loss), glaucoma, and cataracts.
Not to be forgotten is foot damage. Nerve damage, combined with poor blood flow to the feet, can lead to serious foot problems. These can range from simple infections to non-healing ulcers that could require amputation.
Sleep apnea is common among people with type 2 diabetes. Obstructive sleep apnea might, in fact, be a precursor to onset of this disease.
Last, but not least, is the problem of hearing impairment. Hearing problems are more common in people with diabetes.
Understanding these complications is vital for health management and disease control, especially for the Germans in America, where healthcare systems and lifestyle choices can differ significantly from their home country.
