Visual Problems

When the glucose level is high, it can develop an error of refraction, which causes blurred vision. This blurring of vision may become worse when the treatment causes a very rapid decrease in blood glucose. The glasses should not be adapted until the values of blood sugar has stabilized for 6 to 8 weeks. Diabetics also develop long-term vision problems as a result of impaired circulation in the retina.

At the root of the vision problems of diabetics are changes in the small arteries that carry blood to the retina (the retina of the eye is sensitive to light). About half of diabetics experiencing eye problems after suffering from the disease for more than 10 years. These problems are safe for those suffering from diabetes for 30 or 40 years.

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common, although cataracts and glaucoma are much more common in diabetics. How diabetic retinopathy often show a progression of the disease, it is important to make regular eye exams if you have diabetes. If diabetic retinopathy is the laser treatment can slow its progression.

Other Long-Term Complications

Many diabetics develop kidney disease due to deterioration of the small veins. You may also see diabetic neuropathy (impaired nerve fiber function), especially in the fingers and even hands. In these cases feels a stinging pain from heat. Over time the affected areas become less sensitive and vulnerable to injury and infection.

Ulcers and, secondarily, gangrene are a result of a neuropathy. When the gangrene is the result of arteriosclerosis frequently appears on the toes or on the site of a wound. Finally impotence is also a common complication in diabetics.