It is always better to know and prevent a disease than to have it. This article discusses the complications of diabetes. One can avoid these complications by the yearly (or half-yearly) checkup of eyes, kidney, heart and feet by the qualified specialists so that these complications, if present, can be diagnosed at an early stage and effectively treated before it becomes too late.

Acute Complications of Diabetes

Hypoglycemia – Hypoglycemia is defined as a condition in which there is blood glucose concentration of less than 45 mg/dl. Sweating, trembling, hunger, confusion drowsiness, in-coordination and nausea are some of the symptoms of hypoglycemia.

The common causes are unpunctual or inadequate meals, unexpected or unusual exercise and ingestion of alcohol. Patients should be taught that if unusual exercise is anticipated the preceding dose of insulin should be reduced and extra carbohydrate ingested. All patients taking insulin should carry with them glucose tablets.

Ketoacidosis – Any form of stress, particularly an acute infection or neglect of treatment due to carelessness can lead to ketoacidosis. There is intense thirst and polyuria. Constipation, muscle cramps and altered vision are common. Hyperventilation with low blood pressure and acetone may be smelt in the breath and finally it may lead to coma. Glycosuria and ketonuria would be present. Blood glucose levels may be as high as 360-720 mg/dl and low plasma bicarbonate and blood pH.

The condition should be treated with the utmost urgency in hospital. Intravenous fluid replacement is required since, even when the patient is able to swallow, fluids given by mouth may be poorly absorbed. If 6 to 8 units of insulin per hour is given, blood glucose level comes down. 13-20 mMol of potassium per 0.51 infusion fluid should be started from the outset. Intracellular fluid is replaced once the blood glucose has fallen below 250 mg/dl by infusing glucose solution. Intensive medical care is needed and the blood glucose, pH, electrolytes and ketones have to be monitored, hourly at first.

I hope this article has covered some of the major complications of diabetes. Knowing these complications will help you to prevent them.

Control your blood sugar for having more control on life!

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

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