01 Aug What Are Acute Health Complications of Diabetes?
Diabetes can bring an onset of other health conditions. It can cause kidney problems, eye damage, nerve damage, and foot and skin issues.
Managing diabetes includes medications like insulin and other oral medicines. People diagnosed with the condition also need to regularly monitor their blood sugar levels.
If left untreated, diabetes can cause harm to other parts of the body. Here are some of the acute health complications of diabetes.
Hypoglycemia
A sudden drop in blood sugar levels is called hypoglycemia. It is a condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Some of the symptoms of hypoglycemia include:
- Looking pale
- Shakiness
- Sweating
- Headache
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue and difficulty concentrating.
Seizures and loss of consciousness can happen with severe hypoglycemia. Some of the signs that it has become more severe are:
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Loss of coordination
- Blurry vision
Ketoacidosis
Ketoacidosis is usually connected to type 1 diabetes. It happens when your body cannot use sugar or glucose as a fuel source, leading to your body breaking down fat.
The breakdown of fat then causes possibly toxic acids called ketone bodies. It can then lead to:
- Dehydration
- Abdominal pain
- Breathing problems
Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Syndrome
Hyperosmolar can be a life-threatening condition with high blood sugar levels. The kidneys try to compensate for the extremely high levels of blood sugar and expel some of it through urination.
This condition makes your blood more concentrated.
Possible symptoms include:
- Fever
- Increased urination
- Excessive thirst
To avoid any health complications brought by diabetes, always monitor your blood sugar level and never forget to take your medications.
Aside from the treatment plan given to you by your doctor, you should aim for a healthy lifestyle and maintain a healthy weight.
SOURCE:
https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/hyperglycemic-hyperosmolar-syndrome#causes
https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes-complications#summary