Long-term complications can result from untreated high blood glucose levels. That’s why it’s very important to keep your glucose levels at or near normal.

Over time, high blood glucose can damage nerves and blood vessels which can lead to:

• Heart and blood vessel problems
  
• Eye disease
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Nerve disease
  
• Teeth, gum and skin infections
  
• Problems with legs and feet
  
  

Cardiovascular Disease

Heart disease is twice as likely to occur in diabetics . Many of these problems occur due to a blockage or slowing down of blood flow in the body. Additionally, poor eating habits such as eating foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol can lead to excess lipids which in turn can damage blood vessels and your circulatory system. Uncontrolled high blood glucose levels and high blood pressure can also put one at risk for heart attack or stroke.

To protect your heart and circulatory system you should:

• Keep your blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible
  
• Limit your intake of foods high in fats and cholesterol
  
• Limit use of salt
  
• Control blood pressure and lipid levels
  
• Not Smoke
  
• Exercise regularly
  
  

Skin and Feet Problems

Diabetics are more prone to have problems with their feet. Problems arising from poor blood circulation, nerve damage or infection can result in causing one to lose a foot or leg. It is very important to contact your health care professional if you experience any of the following foot problems:

• Sores that won’t heal
  
• Skin color changes
  
• Pain, swelling or numbness
  
• Cut or bruise or other foot injuries
  
  

Tips for good foot care include:

• Keep your feet clean and dry
  
• Use skin lotion to prevent dryness but don’t put between your toes
  
• Wear well-fitting shoes and socks
  
• Don’t take too hot baths or showers
  
• Check your feet daily for cuts, bruises or other injuries. Use a mirror to see the bottom of your feet
  
• File your toenails straight across
  
  

Mouth care

When you have diabetes, you are at risk for periodontal disease or infection of the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. You can do some simple things to help prevent gum disease.

• Use good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth after each meal and floss daily.
  
• See your dentist regularly. Your dentist may want to see you every 3-4 months depending on your plaque and tartar build-up and how well you take care of your gums and teeth.
  
• Control your blood sugar. Doing so will not only help control your diabetes but it will also help your body fight infections and lessen potential periodontal disease complications.
  

Eye Care

Diabetes can damage tiny blood vessels within your eyes and can increase the risk of eye diseases such as glaucoma. You can reduce your risk of serious eye problems if you get yearly eye exams, keep your blood glucose levels at or near normal, and control your blood pressure.