The Diabetes Kitchen Pharmacy

$45$90

Common Problems Faced by People with Diabetes

Short-term (acute) complications

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): shakiness, sweating, confusion, and in severe cases seizures or loss of consciousness. It is most often linked to insulin or certain tablets.
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar): excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): a medical emergency, mainly in type 1 diabetes, with nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fruity-smelling breath.
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state: severe dehydration and very high glucose, more common in type 2 diabetes.

Long-term complications

Heart and blood vessels: higher risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, and poor circulation.
Eyes (retinopathy): damage to retinal vessels, which can lead to vision loss. Cataracts and glaucoma are also more common.
Kidneys (nephropathy): gradual loss of kidney function, which can progress to kidney failure.
Nerves (neuropathy): numbness, tingling, or burning in the feet and hands. It can also affect digestion, bladder control, blood pressure regulation, and sexual function.
Feet: reduced sensation and poor blood flow make ulcers and infections more likely, and severe cases can lead to amputation.
Skin and mouth: slow wound healing, frequent infections (fungal, bacterial), and gum disease.

Everyday and emotional challenges

Constant monitoring of food, glucose, and medication
Diabetes distress, anxiety, depression, or burnout
Cost of medication, supplies, and regular check-ups
Weight management difficulties
Sleep problems and fatigue
Social pressure around food and eating out

How risk is reduced

Most complications are preventable or can be delayed through good glucose control, blood pressure and cholesterol management, not smoking, regular exercise, yearly eye, kidney, and foot checks, and taking medication as prescribed.

This is general information, not a substitute for medical advice. Anyone with diabetes should work with their doctor on an individual plan.

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