Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects more than 38 million people in the United States. Without proper management, diabetes can lead to a wide range of serious health complications that impact nearly every system in the body.
Common Complications of Diabetes
Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the risk of complications increases when blood glucose levels are not well-controlled. Some of the most common complications include:
- Cardiovascular disease: The narrowing of blood vessels can cause heart attacks and strokes. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among people with diabetes.
- Stroke: Blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off because of a blockage in an artery or vessel. The risk of stroke doubles for people with diabetes.
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD): Kidney failure leads to the inability to excrete waste products from the blood. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure in the United States.
- Diabetic-related retinopathy, macular edema, glaucoma, and cataracts: These involve damage to the blood vessels of the retina and other parts of the eye. Retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the United States.
- Diabetes-related neuropathy: Neuropathy is nerve damage caused by poor blood flow to the extremities, and is a common reason for amputation.
- Gingivitis and periodontitis: Gum disease can lead to tooth decay and loss.
- Hearing loss: People experience a decreased ability to hear sounds, which is caused by damage to the inner, middle, or outer ear. Individuals with diabetes are twice as likely as healthy individuals to experience hearing impairment.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): This is a condition where the blood becomes acidic because you do not have enough insulin to process glucose. DKA is a life-threatening condition that usually requires hospitalization for treatment (American Diabetes Association [ADA], n.d.).
Preventing Diabetes-Related Complications
The ADA emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive care plan to help prevent or delay these complications. The key is to maintain blood glucose levels within your target range through a combination of lifestyle choices and medical care (ADA Professional Practice Committee, 2024).
Based on recommendations of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, your comprehensive care plan should include:
- Healthy lifestyle habits: Engage in regular physical activity, follow a balanced meal plan, and prioritize adequate sleep.
- Medication adherence: Take medications as prescribed. If you have any questions, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
- Routine checkups: Stay engaged with your healthcare team, including your primary care provider and other specialists—your registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), certified diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES), endocrinologist, eye doctor, dermatologist, dentist, and podiatrist—to monitor for any early signs of diabetes-related complications.
- Foot and skin care: Inspect your feet and skin daily for cuts, blisters, or infections. Report any concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.
- Tobacco cessation: Smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products significantly increases the risk of heart disease, neuropathy, and other complications related to diabetes.
- Monitor blood glucose: Check your levels as directed by your healthcare provider. Consistent monitoring helps detect trends and prevent spikes or drops.
- Manage stress: Use techniques like breathing exercises, physical activity, and good sleep strategies. Stay connected with someone who supports you.
With the right plan and consistent care, diabetes complications can be prevented or effectively managed. Take a proactive approach to protect your health and improve your quality of life.
References
American Diabetes Association. (n.d.). About diabetes: Diabetes complications. Retrieved July 11, 2025, from https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/complications
American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. (2024). Comprehensive medical evaluation and assessment of comorbidities: Standards of care in diabetes—2024. Diabetes Care, 47(Supplement 1), S52–S76. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc24-S004
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, May 15). National diabetes statistics report. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/php/data-research/
