List and explain long term and short term effects of diabetic in it's simplest form

1 answer

Sure! Here are the long-term and short-term effects of diabetes explained in simple terms:

Short-Term Effects of Diabetes:

  1. High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia):

    • When blood sugar levels are too high, it can cause symptoms like thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue.
  2. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia):

    • If blood sugar drops too low, it can lead to shakiness, sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and even fainting.
  3. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA):

    • This is a serious condition that can occur mainly in Type 1 diabetes when the body starts breaking down fat instead of sugar for energy. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Long-Term Effects of Diabetes:

  1. Heart Disease:

    • Diabetes can increase the risk of heart problems, including heart attacks and strokes, due to damage to blood vessels.
  2. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy):

    • High blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to tingling, pain, or numbness, especially in the feet.
  3. Kidney Damage (Diabetic Nephropathy):

    • Over time, diabetes can harm the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney disease or failure.
  4. Eye Damage (Diabetic Retinopathy):

    • High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to vision problems or blindness.
  5. Foot Problems:

    • Nerve damage and poor circulation can lead to foot sores or infections, which may result in amputations in severe cases.
  6. Skin Issues:

    • People with diabetes may experience various skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections.

Understanding these effects can help with managing diabetes effectively and potentially avoiding complications. Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are key!