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Controlled Vs. Uncontrolled Diabetes

Diabetes affects over 20 million Americans, and this group is growing by the year. Diabetes can be defined as controlled or uncontrolled, and each distinction comes with its own risks.

  1. Identification

    • Controlled diabetes is when someone is eating the right foods, exercising and taking his prescribed medication to keep his glucose levels in a safe and healthy range. Uncontrolled diabetes is when someone is not regulating his lifestyle to keep glucose levels in a safe and healthy range.

    Types

    • There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, also called juvenile diabetes, is when a person does not produce enough insulin and must take daily insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes, also called adult onset diabetes, is when a person does make enough insulin, but she's become insulin resistant.

    Risks

    • People who have uncontrolled diabetes are at higher risk of heart disease, blood vessel disease, eye disease and blindness, gum disease and tooth loss, kidney failure, stroke and nerve damage. People who tightly control their diabetes may be at a higher risk for hypoglycemia.

    Benefits

    • A person with uncontrolled diabetes might think that she will live a fuller life by continuing her dangerous lifestyle. The benefit of controlled diabetes is a longer and healthier life.

    Considerations

    • Losing weight can help control your diabetes, if your weight is a factor. Losing 5 percent of your body weight will get you well on your way, and losing 10 percent of your body weight may make your diabetes easier to manage and control.

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