Diabetes complications occur when blood sugar stays high for years without control — affecting small and large blood vessels throughout the body.
Small Vessel Complications:
- Diabetic retinopathy: Most common cause of blindness in ages 20-60. Annual eye exam detects it early.
- Diabetic nephropathy: 30-40% of diabetes patients affected. Annual urine Albumin test.
- Diabetic neuropathy: Numbness and tingling in feet — starts at toes and ascends. Most dangerous because it prevents feeling wounds.
Large Vessel Complications:
- Heart disease: Coronary artery blockage — #1 cause of death in diabetes patients.
- Stroke: Risk doubles in diabetes patients.
- Peripheral arterial disease: Poor foot circulation — may lead to amputation.
How to Avoid:
- HbA1c below 7% — most important protective factor.
- Blood pressure below 130/80.
- LDL cholesterol below 100.
- Annual screenings: Eyes + kidneys + feet + nerves.
- Quit smoking: Doubles all complications.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we provide complete annual complication screening for diabetes patients.