Type 1 diabetes, if not managed properly, may result in numerous health complications. High sugar levels can affect your heart, kidneys, liver, nerves, and eyes. Type 1 diabetes is a condition wherein the body is unable to produce insulin. It is also known as juvenile diabetes. It is important for type 1 diabetes patients to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, so as to effectively manage the risk for health complications.
What is type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is one form of diabetes mellitus, the other being type 2 diabetes. This type is commonly referred to as an autoimmune disorder, wherein the insulin producing cells in the pancreas are unable to do their job. Since insulin is not produced accordingly, blood and urine glucose is increased, and the usual symptoms begin to manifest themselves. These symptoms include frequent urination, frequent thirst, and increased hunger.
If you are currently managing your type 1 diabetes, understanding the possible complications of your condition is very important. This will help you understand that type 1 diabetes mellitus need long-term management; otherwise you may be facing health complications which are critical or disabling at the very least.
Health risks and complications
Having diabetes mellitus increases your risk for a variety of serious health problems. Furthermore, certain complications are known to affect men more than women and vice versa, pregnant women, and seniors. Here are some of the more common health risks and complications associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus:
Skin and mouth problems
Due to the increased level of glucose in the blood, type 1 diabetes patients may experience a variety of skin problems, such as bacterial and fungal infections. Infection from the Staphylococcus bacteria for example, which is better known as staph infection, may lead to boils, cellulitis, folliculitis, and even stye. Fungal problems are commonly experienced in the feet, nails, genital regions, and body folds such as the back of elbows and knees.
Mouth problems are also pretty common with people who have type 1 diabetes. People with diabetes are more prone to suffer from gum disease, especially if proper hygiene is not maintained over the long-term. Typical oral problems experienced by type 1 diabetes patients include thrush and dry mouth.
Kidney damage
Kidney damage is also known as nephropathy. Diabetes is considered to be the most common cause for kidney damage or kidney failure; where in 44 percent of new cases are traced to diabetes mellitus. Increased glucose levels in the blood and urine affects the ability of kidney to effectively filter waste from the blood. Kidney disease due to diabetes does not develop overnight however. This complication can take many years before symptoms become more palpable. When severe kidney damage takes place, irreversible kidney failure occurs, during which dialysis or a kidney transplant is often recommended.
Heart disease
People who suffer from type 1 diabetes are more prone to develop cardiovascular health conditions eventually. Common problems include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, heart attack, atherosclerosis or the narrowing of arteries, as well as high blood pressure. Since diabetes increases the build up of fatty plaques in the arteries, blockages or clots can take place, leading to a heart attack. Atherosclerosis is also known to lead to stroke as well as peripheral vascular disease.
Complications in pregnancy
Pregnant women who have diabetes are prone to a variety of life-threatening complications. In fact both the mother and the baby may be placed at risk. It is important for women who are with child to be able to manage their diabetes successfully, so as to minimize risks of miscarriage, still birth, and other health problems at birth. Type 1 diabetes and consequently high blood sugar can lead to a remarkable increase in the size of the infant, increasing the possibility of a caesarian operation rather than normal delivery.
Neuropathy or nerve damage
Diabetic neuropathy can be highly debilitating, and affects most type 1 diabetes patients. This complication results in the loss of feeling in the body’s extremities such as the hands and feet. High blood glucose leads to reduced circulation, leading to nerve damage. The slightest damage may not heal properly over time, and may lead to long-term damage or permanent injury.
Eye damage and foot damage
Diabetic retinopathy refers to a variety eye problems associated with diabetes. When you have type 1 diabetes, the small blood vessels in your retina can be susceptible to damage. Fluid can leak and cause macula swelling, the macula being the part of the retina that is responsible in giving you a good vision. It is important for people suffering from diabetes to subject themselves to a thorough eye examination at least once each year.
Foot damage arises as a result of reduced blood flow to the feet. Poor circulation results in nerve damage and this is why foot complications are fairly common. Simple cuts and blisters, if not given prompt treatment may lead to critical infections. Skin changes in the foot can also make it more susceptible to chafing, bruises, and cuts. Calluses are also fairly common, and when they break down they may turn into feet ulcers or open wounds. Because of the possible complications associated with type 1 diabetes, it’s best to have regular check-ups and to actively monitor your blood glucose levels.