Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease defined by excess sugar in the blood. This hyperglycemia is due either to insufficient production of insulin or to poor use of this hormone by the body.
In effect, insulin acts as a key allowing glucose to enter cells to provide energy. When this mechanism goes wrong, sugar builds up in the blood.
A chronic illness, which can progress without noise
As Dr. Gérald Kierzek reminds us, “Type 2 diabetes can progress for years without causing obvious symptoms. Many people are unaware that they are sick, and the diagnosis is often made by chance during a blood test taken for another reason.”
This silent nature makes it a disease that is sometimes underestimated, until serious complications appear. Here are five, detailed by our expert.
Acanthosis nigricans, the skin sign not to be neglected
Among the visible warning signs, the first is acanthosis nigricans. It manifests itself as thickening and darkening of the skin, particularly on the neck, armpits or groin. This disorder can precede the onset of diabetes and reveals insulin resistance.
Spotting this sign early allows you to act before the disease takes a lasting hold.
Carpal tunnel syndrome, an underestimated musculoskeletal disorder
People with diabetes may experience pain, numbness, or tingling in their hands.
“These symptoms sometimes reflect carpal tunnel syndrome, linked to diabetic neuropathy.” indicates our expert. This nerve compression can become disabling if it is not treated in time.
Lipodystrophy, a reaction to insulin injections
Some patients develop small lumps or pits under the skin at the insulin injection site. This lipodystrophy disrupts insulin absorption and complicates the stabilization of blood sugar levels. “Regularly changing the injection area and monitoring the skin helps limit this phenomenon.“recommends the emergency physician.
Plantar perforator pain, a foot complication
Often painless at first, plantar perforation pain results in a thickening of the skin under the foot which eventually ulcerates.
“Due to the loss of sensitivity associated with neuropathy, the wound may go unnoticed and become seriously infected” warns Dr. Kierzek. Regular podiatric follow-up is essential to avoid amputations.
Diabetic cheiroarthropathy, or the “praying hand”
This rare condition causes progressive stiffness in the fingers, making it difficult to fully open the hand. Diabetic cheiroarthropathy is often neglected, but it can become disabling in daily life. “Physiotherapy, combined with good blood sugar regulation, helps maintain joint mobility“recalls the doctor.
Diabetic muscular infarction
This complication is rare and little known. “It can cause isolated muscle pain” explains our expert.
Finally, beyond the little-known complications, Dr. Kierzek points out that diabetes also weakens the eyes, kidneys and heart. “These are more well-known micro and macrovascular complications, such as retinopathy or nephropathy, for the former, and stroke or myocardial infarction for the latter. he explains.
“Hence the importance of regular medical monitoring: consultation with an ophthalmologist every year, renal monitoring and measurement of HbA1c to adjust treatment.” he insists.
Because according to him, “Prevention is based on good blood sugar management, regular monitoring and overall management of risk factors such as hypertension, cholesterol or tobacco.