Written by Satata Karmakar |Updated : October 9, 2024 3:15 PM IST
High blood sugar, often referred to as hyperglycemia, is a condition marked by too much glucose in the bloodstream. High blood sugar happens when the body can't manage glucose levels effectively. Many contributing factors can lead to such health trouble - some of them include insulin resistance, not getting enough exercise, poor eating habits, or specific health issues, etc. If left untreated or uncontrolled, high blood sugar levels over some time can lead to serious health problems, including diabetes.
But that is not where it all end. Diabetes is also manageable, and when you leave it untreated, many other health problems including heart failure, kidney damage, etc can arise. In this article, we explore what happens inside the body when diabetes is left uncontrolled for a longer period.
According to the experts, an adult's standard blood sugar range is usually between 80-130 mg/dL before meals and under 180 mg/dL afterwards. However, these figures may slightly differ from one individually another based on factors like - age, weight, and overall health status. It's important to keep an eye on the warning signs of the condition to avoid any future problems.
When high blood sugar levels go unmonitored, they can cause serious damage to the body. Here are some of the most harmful effects of uncontrolled diabetes:
Yes, you read that right, high blood sugar can significantly increase your risk of developing serious heart-related problems. How does this happen? When diabetes is not controlled, it can cause atherosclerosis, which is when blood vessels become clogged and stiff due to plaque buildup. This can lead to life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes.
Another serious consequence of uncontrolled diabetes is nerve damage, often referred to as diabetic neuropathy. Excess glucose in the bloodstream can harm the small blood vessels that supply nerves, resulting in symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or pain in various body parts, including the hands, feet, and even internal organs.
Uncontrolled diabetes is a major contributor to kidney disease, also known as diabetic nephropathy. High blood sugar can harm the small blood vessels within the kidneys, diminishing their ability to effectively filter waste from the blood. If not managed, this can eventually lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or even a transplant.
Diabetic retinopathy is another common complication affecting vision in those with uncontrolled diabetes. Elevated blood sugar can disrupt the blood vessels in the retina, leading to blurred vision and, in severe situations, total blindness. People with diabetes must have regular eye check-ups to prevent potential vision loss.
People with uncontrolled diabetes face a greater risk of serious foot problems such as diabetic foot ulcers. Nerve damage and poor blood circulation can reduce sensitivity in the feet, causing injuries to go unnoticed and develop into severe infections.
High blood sugar can negatively impact the skin, causing various conditions for those with diabetes. Common issues include fungal and bacterial infections, as well as wounds that heal slowly. Maintaining good skin care and controlling blood sugar levels play a vital role in preventing these skin complications.
When diabetes is uncontrolled, it can weaken the immune system, making it easier to fall ill. Elevated blood sugar creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to flourish, increasing the chances of skin infections, urinary tract infections, and more. Good hygiene practices and blood sugar management are essential to minimize infection risks.
As discussed above, diabetes is one of the worst conditions that your body can develop. From damaging the kidneys to ruining the heart vessels, uncontrolled high blood sugar levels can do a lot more inside your body than you may think. Now, when it comes to managing the condition, there are a few lifestyle changes that one can adopt to keep blood sugar levels under control, these include - following a healthy diet, managing stress levels, keeping BP under control, exercising regularly, etc.
Disclaimer: Make sure to visit a doctor immediately after developing any of the complications mentioned-above. Understand that timely medical intervention can prevent your body from suffering any worst heath problems.
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