Diabetes-Related Trouble & Danger Signs

Diabetes is a condition that affects the way the hormone insulin is produced by the body and usually falls into one of two main categories---type 1 and type 2. The former most often develops during childhood and is marked by the body's inability to produce insulin. The latter is more common and can be caused by obesity, resulting in the body struggling to make enough insulin for the body to regulate glucose (sugar) in the blood. A third type, gestational diabetes, typically occurs only during pregnancy.

Low Blood Sugar

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) occurs when a person hasn't eaten enough food, has exercised too much or has ingested too much insulin, resulting in low levels of sugar in the blood. Common symptoms are sweating, shaking, headache, blurred or spotty vision, weakness, fatigue and confusion.

High Blood Sugar

• Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is also potentially dangerous for diabetics. When there isn't enough insulin in the body and glucose levels build up in the blood it can damage the body's organs. Symptoms include thirst and the need to urinate often.

Ketoacidosis

• If high blood sugar continues uncontrolled, ketoacidosis can develop. This condition can be fatal, as it produces wastes that accumulate in the body because they can't be excreted fast enough. Symptoms include fruity-smelling breath, dry mouth, vomiting, nausea and difficulty catching your breath.

Heart Disease

• Heart disease and diabetes often go hand in hand. If diabetes is uncontrolled and blood sugar levels fluctuate too much, the organs can sustain damage---particularly the heart. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease are all common in diabetics and must be controlled. Regular checkups and monitoring can help prevent problems, but elevated cholesterol and blood pressure levels can indicate trouble.

Foot Problems

• Feet are a common victim of diabetes, as nerves and blood vessels can be severely damaged. Infections are common, and amputation may be required for severely damaged feet. Loss of feeling, injury or infection to the foot are warning signs of potential problems.

Vision Problems

• Damage to the blood vessels inside the eye is a common result of uncontrolled diabetes. Blindness or vision problems can occur over time, so eyes should be checked regularly. Blurry vision or spots on the eyes, as well as difficulty seeing at certain angles, are symptoms of diabetic retinopathy.

Staying Healthy

• Keeping blood sugar levels tightly controlled is the best way to avoid any complications from diabetes. Blood sugar levels that fluctuate wildly between too high and too low are tough on the organs and can cause damage to the entire body. A healthy diet, regular exercise and a doctor's close monitoring can help you stay strong and avoid trouble.