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What Are the Side Effects of Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition for which there is no cure. It affects more than 20 million Americans every year, and though it can be managed, there are side effects that stem from it. These side effects can range from simple fungal infections that can be easily treated with medications to more severe side effects that require amputation. The side effects a diabetic suffers will vary greatly depending on the type of diabetes they have and how well they manage and care for themselves. All statistics were obtained from the American Diabetes Association.

  1. Diabetic Retinopathy

    • This is an eye disease that causes more than 20,000 diabetics to go blind each year. Diabetes damages the small blood vessels in the retina, resulting in this condition.

    Diabetic Dermopathy

    • This condition appears most commonly on the front of the legs in the form of circular, scaly patches of skin that are brown in color. It occurs due to changes in the small blood vessels of the skin.

    Foot Ulcers

    • These are open sores usually found on the bottom of the feet. Poor circulation slows down the healing process, and if not treated, they can become infected and possibly lead to amputation.

    Poor Circulation

    • Diabetes causes blood vessels within the body to constrict and harden; this results in poor circulation. Though this condition has the greatest impact on the feet and legs, it is also a contributing factor in heart attacks and strokes among diabetics.

    Neuropathy

    • This condition is diabetic nerve damage, which decreases a diabetic's ability to feel pain or extreme temperatures, especially in their feet. It can ultimately lead to a change in the shape of a diabetics toes and foot.

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