Introduction
While the link between blood sugar and diabetes is well-known, consistently high glucose levels can silently damage nearly every part of your body. This long-term damage is the root of diabetes-related complications.
1. Your Blood Vessels
High blood sugar is like a corrosive syrup flowing through your veins. It damages the delicate lining of your blood vessels, making them stiff, narrow, and prone to clogging. This can lead to:
- Heart and Brain: Increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Eyes: Damage to the tiny retinal blood vessels (retinopathy), potentially leading to blindness.
- Kidneys: Impaired filtering function (nephropathy), which can result in kidney failure.
2. Your Nerves (Neuropathy)
Excess glucose can injure the walls of the small capillaries that nourish your nerves, especially in the legs and feet. Symptoms include:
- Tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation.
- Sharp pains or cramps.
- Loss of sensation, which can lead to unnoticed injuries and serious infections.
3. Your Healing Ability
High blood sugar impairs your white blood cells’ ability to fight infection. It also reduces blood flow, limiting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for repair. This is why even small cuts and sores can take a very long time to heal and are at high risk of becoming infected.
Managing your blood sugar isn’t just about avoiding a diagnosis; it’s about actively protecting your eyes, heart, kidneys, and nerves for a healthier future.
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