10 Issues or Ailments from High Blood Sugar
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can have multiple detrimental effects on the body. Beyond diabetes and neuropathy, here are ten ways high blood sugar impacts the body in the form of disease or ailments:
1. Cardiovascular Disease: Persistent high blood sugar can lead to the buildup of plaque in blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
2. Retinopathy: High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, leading to blurred vision and, in severe cases, blindness.
3. Nephropathy (Kidney Disease):High blood sugar can harm the nephrons, the tiny filtering units in the kidneys, resulting in reduced kidney function and eventually kidney failure.
4. Gastroparesis: This is a condition where the stomach cannot empty properly, a result of damage to the vagus nerve from prolonged high blood sugar.
5. Skin Conditions: High blood sugar can lead to various skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections, skin discoloration, and non-healing ulcers.
6. Oral Health Issues: Elevated blood sugar increases the risk of gum disease and other oral health complications.
7. Foot Problems: High blood sugar can cause poor blood flow and damage to the feet, leading to issues like foot ulcers, calluses, and, at times, gangrene which might require amputation.
8. Osteoporosis: There’s evidence to suggest that prolonged hyperglycemia can reduce bone density, making individuals more susceptible to fractures.
9. Hearing Impairment: Some studies have found that high blood sugar can be linked to hearing loss due to possible damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the ear.
10. Cognitive Decline: Long-term high blood sugar may increase the risk of cognitive disorders and has been associated with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Managing blood sugar levels is essential to reduce the risk of these complications. Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals can help in early detection and management.