If diabetes isn’t well managed, it can lead to health complications such as retinopathy and even neuropathy, among others. It’s important then that diabetics take the necessary steps in order to reduce the risk of developing these complications.
Researcher Dr. Gregory Moneta explained, “Diabetes is one of the strongest risk factors for any form of vascular disease, both symptomatic and asymptomatic. Those with diabetes should have regular doctor visits and tests, and may need to see specialists such as ophthalmologists, vascular surgeons, and podiatrists for checkups.”
Vascular complications include diabetic eye disease, peripheral artery disease (impaired circulation in the legs), peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) and foot ulcers, heart attack, and kidney failure.
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The risk of developing these complications of diabetes can be reduced by going for regular eye exams, exercising, wearing proper footwear and checking your feet frequently, maintaining healthy weight along with blood sugar and cholesterol levels, quitting smoking, and seeing a doctor when experiencing problems such as leg pain or chest pain.
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
