Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world. While many people are familiar with the basics of the condition, there are still some surprising facts about diabetes that are less well-known. In this article, we’ll explore five of these surprising facts about diabetes and what they mean for your health.
- Diabetes can affect your vision
Many people are surprised to learn that diabetes can have a significant impact on their eyesight. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, this condition can cause blindness. This is why it’s important for people with diabetes to have regular eye exams and to manage their blood sugar levels carefully. - Diabetes is linked to gum disease
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Another surprising fact about diabetes is that it’s linked to gum disease. Research has shown that people with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, and that gum disease can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can also cause inflammation in the body, which can make it harder for insulin to work properly. - Diabetes can affect your skin
Diabetes can also have an impact on your skin. High blood sugar levels can cause dry, itchy skin, and can also make it harder for wounds to heal. In some cases, people with diabetes may develop a condition known as diabetic dermopathy, which causes patches of light brown, scaly skin. - Diabetes can affect your mental health
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While most people are aware of the physical health effects of diabetes, many are surprised to learn that it can also have an impact on mental health. Studies have shown that people with diabetes are more likely to experience depression and anxiety and that this may be due to the stress of managing the condition on a daily basis. - Diabetes is preventable
Perhaps the most surprising fact about diabetes is that it is often preventable. While there are some risk factors for diabetes that are beyond our control, such as family history and age, there are many lifestyle factors that we can control. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help to prevent diabetes or delay its onset.
Diabetes is a complex condition that can have a range of surprising effects on your health. By staying informed about these effects and by taking steps to manage your blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce your risk of developing complications from diabetes and improve your overall health and well-being.
Source and References:
- “Diabetic Retinopathy,” National Eye Institute, https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/diabetic-retinopathy
- “Diabetes and Oral Health Problems,” American Diabetes Association, https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/complications/oral-health-problems
- “Skin Complications,” American Diabetes Association, https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/complications/skin-complications
- “Diabetes and Mental Health,” American Diabetes Association, https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/mental-health
- “Preventing Type 2 Diabetes,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/prevention.html