How Type 2 Diabetes Affects Your Whole Body

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. With type 2 diabetes, your body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use insulin well. Glucose, or sugar, builds up in your blood instead of being used for energy.

Over time, high blood sugar can damage your blood vessels and nerves. This can lead to several health problems, including:

* Heart disease: Type 2 diabetes increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart failure.

* Stroke: Type 2 diabetes increases your risk of stroke by two to four times.

* Blindness: Type 2 diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults.

* Kidney disease: Type 2 diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure.

* Nerve damage: Type 2 diabetes can damage the nerves in your feet, hands, and eyes. This can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling.

* Gum disease: Type 2 diabetes increases your risk of gum disease.

* Skin problems: Type 2 diabetes can cause dry, itchy skin and sores that are slow to heal.

* Erectile dysfunction: Type 2 diabetes can cause erectile dysfunction in men.

* Hearing loss: Type 2 diabetes increases your risk of hearing loss.

Type 2 diabetes is a serious disease, but it can be managed. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and taking medication as prescribed can help you control your blood sugar and reduce your risk of complications.

If you have type 2 diabetes, it is important to see your doctor regularly to monitor your condition and prevent complications.