hormonal and metabolic disorders
Complications of Diabetes Mellitus
Monitoring and Preventing Diabetes Complications
At the time of diagnosis and then at least yearly, people with type 2 diabetes are monitored for the presence of diabetes complications, such as kidney, eye, and nerve damage. In people with type 1 diabetes, doctors begin monitoring for complications 5 years after diagnosis. Typical screening tests include the following: Foot examination to test sensation and look for signs of poor circulation (ulcers, hair loss) Eye examination (done by an eye specialist) Urine and blood tests of kidney function Blood tests for cholesterol levels Sometimes an electrocardiogram Worsening of complications can be prevented or delayed by strict blood glucose control or by early treatment with medication. Risk factors for heart problems, such as High Blood Pressure and Proper care of feet and regular eye examinations can help prevent or delay the onset of complications of diabetes. People with diabetes are vaccinated against Pneumococcal Vaccine , Treatment of High Blood Pressure and Another common problem in people with diabetes is gum disease ( Gingivitis ), and regular visits to the dentist for cleaning and preventive care are important. People who strictly control their blood glucose levels may be able to minimize or delay diabetes complications. One of the challenges of trying to strictly control the levels of glucose in the blood is that low blood glucose levels ( Hypoglycemia ) may occur with some commonly used antihyperglycemic medications (such as If hypoglycemia is very severe, sugar must get into the body quickly to prevent permanent harm and relieve symptoms. Most of the time, people can eat sugar. Almost any form of sugar will do, although glucose works more quickly than table sugar (typical table sugar is sucrose). Many people with diabetes carry glucose tablets or glucose gel packs. Other options are to drink a glass of milk (which contains lactose, a type of sugar), sugar water, or fruit juice or to eat a piece of cake, some fruit, or another sweet food. In more serious situations, it may be necessary for emergency medical professionals to inject glucose into a vein. Another treatment for hypoglycemia involves the use ofglucagon.Glucagoncan be injected into a muscle or inhaled as a nasal powder and causes the liver to release large amounts of glucose within minutes. Small transportable kits containing a syringe or autoinjector pen filled withglucagonare available for people who frequently have episodes of low blood glucose to use in emergency situations when sugar cannot be ingested by mouth. 