Hyperglycemia, often known as high blood sugar, is most frequently linked to diabetes. But its effects go well beyond this typical metabolic imbalance. For a general consultation on diabetes, visit Dr. Krishna Daram.
Blood sugar levels that are elevated for an extended period might trigger a variety of health problems throughout the body. In this article, we’ll explore a less well-known but equally important component of high blood sugar: the illnesses it might cause.
- Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular disease is one of the most important health hazards linked to excessive blood sugar. Blood vessels can be harmed and atherosclerosis, a disorder where fatty deposits accumulate in the arteries, can develop as a result of persistently high blood sugar levels.
Due to the increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, controlling blood sugar is crucial for maintaining heart health.
- Kidney Diseases
Filtering waste materials from the blood is a critical function of the kidneys. The kidneys’ tiny blood arteries can get damaged by high blood sugar, affecting kidney function. This can eventually result in chronic renal disease, which may call for dialysis or a kidney transplant.
- Eye Complications
Your vision may be affected by high blood sugar levels. Diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts are all conditions of diabetes that affect the eyes. If neglected, these disorders can damage eyesight or possibly result in blindness.
- Nerve Damage
Diabetic neuropathy is the medical term for the disease when high blood sugar damages the nerves throughout the body. The afflicted areas may experience tingling, numbness, or discomfort as a consequence.
Although it often affects the legs and feet, it can also have an impact on the digestive tract, leading to issues like constipation or diarrhea.
- Skin Issues
Uncontrolled blood sugar levels might also lead to skin issues. Skin infections and diseases including diabetic dermopathy and acanthosis nigricans, which can result in dark areas of skin, are more common in people with diabetes.
- Foot Complications
Complications related to diabetic feet are a severe concern. Foot ulcers that take a long time to cure might be caused by damaged nerves and inadequate circulation. These sores may get infected in extreme circumstances and necessitate amputation.
- Dental Problems
High blood sugar can encourage the growth of germs in the mouth, resulting in dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. People with diabetes must practice good oral hygiene and get routine dental examinations.
- Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction can occur in people with high blood sugar, including both men and women. It can cause erectile dysfunction in males, and it can make it more difficult for women to get orgasmic.
- Alzheimer’s Disease
Recent studies point to a link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. According to some research, dementia, and cognitive impairment may be made more likely by persistent hyperglycemia.
- Infections
High blood sugar levels can impair the immune system, making individuals more prone to infections. Urinary tract infections, skin infections, and yeast infections are frequent illnesses in people with diabetes.
Diabetes is not the only condition in which high blood sugar can have a significant effect on your health. It’s important to understand the wide-ranging effects of uncontrolled blood sugar levels, which range from cardiovascular disorders to renal issues, eye troubles to nerve damage.
The risk of these linked disorders can be reduced by controlling your blood sugar with a healthy diet, consistent exercise, medication if necessary, and frequent medical checkups with Dr. Krishna Daram.
