Complications of Diabetes Mellitus Can Attack the Eye to the Toe

The complications of diabetes mellitus fall into two categories, namely short-term (acute) complications and long-term (chronic) complications. Hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis are acute complications, whereas chronic complications occur when diabetes mellitus has affected the function of the eyes, heart, kidneys, skin, digestive tract, and nerves. Complications of diabetes mellitus is very possible and can affect all organs of the body. Therefore, diabetics must always routinely monitor and maintain their blood sugar levels to remain normal.

Complications of acute diabetes mellitus

Complications of acute diabetes mellitus can be caused by two things, namely a drastic increase and decrease in blood sugar levels. This condition requires immediate medical treatment, because if it is handled too late will cause loss of consciousness, seizures, until death. Complications of acute diabetes mellitus are divided into three types, namely:

• Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a condition in which a drastic decrease in blood sugar levels due to too much insulin in the body, taking too much blood sugar-lowering drugs, or eating too late. Symptoms include blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, headache, trembling, cold sweat, and dizziness. Blood sugar levels that are too low can cause fainting, seizures, even coma.

• Diabetic ketosiadosis (KAD)

Diabetic ketosiadosis is a medical emergency due to an increase in blood sugar levels that are too high. This is a complication of diabetes mellitus that occurs when the body cannot use sugar or glucose as a fuel source, so the body processes fat and produces ketones as an energy source. This condition can cause a buildup of dangerous acids in the blood, causing dehydration, coma, shortness of breath, even death, if not immediately get medical attention.

• Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS)

This condition is also one of the medical emergencies in diabetes, with a mortality rate reaching 20%. HHS occurs due to a surge in blood sugar levels that are very high in a certain time. Symptoms of HHS are characterized by severe thirst, convulsions, weakness, and disturbance of consciousness to coma. An acute complication of diabetes is a serious medical condition that requires the treatment and monitoring of a doctor in the hospital.

Complications of Chronic Diabetes Mellitus

Long-term complications of diabetes usually develop gradually and occur when diabetes is not managed properly. High levels of blood sugar that are not controlled from time to time will increase the risk of complications, namely serious damage to all organs of the body. Some of the long-term complications in diabetes mellitus are:

• Eye disorders (diabetic retinopathy)

Diabetes can damage blood vessels in the retina. This condition is called diabetic retinopathy, which has the potential to cause blindness. Blood vessels in the eyes that are damaged by diabetes also increase the risk of vision problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma. Early detection and treatment of retinopathy as soon as possible can prevent or delay blindness. Diabetics are encouraged to do regular eye examinations.

• Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy)

The complications of diabetes mellitus that cause kidney disorders, are called diabetic nephropathy. This condition can cause kidney failure, and can even lead to death if not treated properly. When kidney failure occurs, sufferers have to do regular dialysis or kidney transplantation. Diabetes is said to be a silent killer, because it often does not cause typical symptoms at an early stage. But at an advanced stage, diabetics will experience symptoms such as anemia, fatigue, swelling in the feet, and electrolyte disturbances. Early diagnosis, controlling blood glucose and blood pressure, administering drugs in the early stages of kidney damage, and limiting protein intake are all possible ways to inhibit the development of diabetes leading to kidney failure.

• Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy)

High levels of sugar in the blood can damage blood vessels and nerves in the body, especially the legs. This condition, commonly called diabetic neuropathy, occurs when the nerves are damaged, either directly due to high blood sugar, or because of decreased blood flow to the nerves. Damage to the nerves will cause sensory disturbance, the symptoms of which are tingling, numbness, or pain. Nerve damage can also affect the digestive tract and cause gastroparesis. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and feeling full quickly when eating. In men, complications of diabetes mellitus can cause erectile dysfunction or impotence. Complications of this type can be prevented and postponed only if diabetes is detected early, so that blood sugar levels can be controlled by applying a healthy diet and lifestyle, and taking medication according to the doctor's recommendations.

• Foot and skin problems

Complications of diabetes mellitus that are also common are skin problems and foot injuries caused by damage to blood vessels and nerves, and very limited blood flow to the legs. High blood sugar makes it easy for bacteria and fungi to multiply. Moreover there is a decrease in the body's ability to heal itself, as a result of diabetes. If not treated properly, diabetics' feet are at risk for easy injury and infection, causing gangrene and diabetic ulcers. Handling wounds on diabetics' feet is by giving antibiotics, good wound care, to the possibility of amputation if the tissue damage is severe.

• Cardiovascular disease

High blood sugar levels can cause damage to blood vessels in the body. This can cause interference with blood circulation throughout the body including the heart. Complications of diabetes mellitus that attack the heart and blood vessels include heart disease, stroke, heart attack, and narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis). Controlling blood sugar levels and other risk factors can prevent and delay complications in cardiovascular disease. Other complications of diabetes mellitus can include hearing loss, Alzheimer's disease, depression, and problems with teeth and mouth.

Diabetes Mellitus Complications Handling

The main principle of handling complications of diabetes mellitus is to control blood sugar levels so as not to damage the organs of the body. Handling provided includes medical treatment, nutrition regulation, and application of a healthy lifestyle for diabetes. The better you manage your blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood lipid levels, the lower your risk of developing diabetes mellitus. It is recommended that you carry out routine checks to the doctor so that diabetes is well managed. Proper eating patterns, adopting a healthy lifestyle by diligently exercising, maintaining weight, not smoking and avoiding cigarette smoke, and avoiding increased blood pressure and cholesterol, will support you to stay healthy and reduce the risk of complications of diabetes mellitus. Don't forget to always be proactive. If you experience any of the symptoms or are known to have risk factors as described above, consult a doctor immediately. Do not ignore the signs and symptoms that arise, because it can complicate the process of treatment and recovery of complications of diabetes mellitus.