Type 2 diabetes complications
Type 2 diabetes complications is that Untreated or poorly managed type 2 diabetes. Can lead to serious complications affecting various organs and systems in the body, including:
1. Cardiovascular Disease: Type 2 diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
2. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Chronic high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves throughout the body, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and loss of sensation, particularly in the hands and feet.
3. Kidney Damage (Nephropathy): Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure, with high blood sugar levels damaging the kidneys’ filtering units over time.
4. Eye Damage (Retinopathy): Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy and vision loss if left untreated.
5. Foot Complications: Nerve damage and poor circulation increase the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and serious complications that may require amputation.
6. Skin Conditions: Diabetes increases the risk of skin infections, fungal infections, and certain skin conditions such as acanthhosis nigricans (darkening and thickening of the skin) and diabetic dermopathy (light brown patches on the skin).
7. Gum Disease: Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of gum disease (periodontitis), which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
8. Mental Health Disorders: Type 2 diabetes is linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment, particularly in older adults.
Diagnosis
Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests. That measure blood sugar levels, including:
1. Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: Measures blood sugar levels after an overnight fast. A fasting blood sugar level of 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher on two separate occasions indicates diabetes.
2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar levels before and two hours after drinking a sugary solution. A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher two hours after drinking the solution indicates diabetes.
3. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test: Measures the average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. An HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
