High blood sugar causes changes in hormones and cells that can damage blood vessels and nerves. Damaged blood vessels are more likely to build up plaque, increasing the risk of coro-nary-artery disease, heart attack and stroke. Damage to smaller blood vessels can lead to loss of vision, kidney disease and nerve problems. Some common complications include:
• Stroke or heart attack
• Eye and kidney disease
• Nerve disease, which can affect internal organs as well as the ability to feel sensations and pain
Symptoms of diabetes complications include:
• Chest pain or shortness of breath when exercising, dizziness or light-headedness, shoulder or stomach pain or a racing heartbeat
• Vision problems and possible vision loss
• Swelling in feet and legs
• Tingling, numbness, tightness, burning, or shooting or stabbing pain in the feet, hands, or other parts of the body, especially at night
If you notice these or other symptoms, consult your doctor.
Source: University of Michigan
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection March 2013
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