Diabetes is a chronic disease that officially concerns more than 4.3 million French people according to health insurance figures. Silent for years, the disease can however give way to complications that impact the quality of life of patients. According to Dr Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical “Diabetics must be attentive to certain signs which may indicate very long -silent complications”. Identifying these signs early makes it possible to avoid serious consequences. Here are 6 to spot.
Healing problems
Wounds, especially at the level of the feet, can take time to heal or infected. As Dr. Kierzek explains, “These wounds, especially on the feet, increase the risk of” ulcers or gangrene “. Particular attention to skin lesions is therefore essential.
To read: The diabetic foot: a serious complication of diabetes
A loss of sensitivity
Loss of sensitivity or sensations in members can also be a sign of complications. “Nuting or tingling in the feet can report diabetic neuropathy“, Prevents Dr. Kierzek. This nerve damage can promote injuries without the patient realizing it.
Visual disturbances
Diabetes can affect vision and lead to eye complications. “”A blurred or fluctuating vision can be linked to eye damage such as retinopathy “underlines the expert. Regular ophthalmological monitoring is therefore essential.
Frequent infections
Diabetic patients have an increased risk of infections, especially skin.“Bacterial or fungal infections are common in case of hyperglycemia”recalls Dr. Kierzek. It is advisable to consult quickly in case of persistent infection.
Cardiovascular signs
Diabetes can weaken the cardiovascular system. “Chest or cramp in the legs may indicate vascular complications such as atherosclerosis”alerts the expert. Early management is essential to avoid cardiovascular accidents.
Fatigue and excessive thirst
The appearance of fatigue and excessive and new thirst are also to be monitored. “These symptoms can be linked to glycemic imbalance or diabetic acidocetosis”warns the doctor. This is an excessive acidity of the blood caused by the accumulation of ketone bodies, an emergency for the patient. Rigorous blood sugar control is recommended.
Faced with these risks, “Regular and systematic monitoring before symptoms and strict control of blood sugar are essential to prevent or limit these complications”insists our medical director. Fortunately, adapted medical follow -up and a good lifestyle make it possible to significantly reduce the risk of diabetes linked complications.