Living with diabetes is a demanding and complex responsibility. From managing your blood glucose levels to maintaining an active lifestyle, there are many different steps that are necessary for keeping your health in check. But what happens if you leave your diabetes untreated? While it may seem like the easier option at first, the consequences of not actively controlling your diabetes can lead to long-term problems and possible serious medical issues down the line — so understanding why treatment is important is essential. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what you need to know about leaving diabetes untreated and help explain how proper treatment can keep you healthier for longer.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which your body doesn’t properly use the sugar (glucose) it gets from food. This causes glucose levels to become too high, leading to a number of health problems over time if not treated correctly. The two main types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2 — both of which require active treatment to manage.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s own defense system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin — a hormone that helps regulate glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body doesn’t make enough insulin, or when it becomes resistant to its effects — leading to elevated glucose levels.
What are the symptoms of untreated diabetes?
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Weight loss
- Slow-healing cuts and bruises
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- Yeast infections
- Skin problems, such as itchy rashes
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
- Coma and death in severe cases
What are the consequences of leaving diabetes untreated?
If you leave your diabetes untreated, it can have serious health implications — both short-term and long-term. Some of the potential consequences of untreated diabetes include:
- Eye damage, such as diabetic retinopathy
- Damage to your nerves, which can cause tingling or numbness in the extremities
- Skin problems, such as infection and poor circulation
- Kidney damage, leading to kidney failure
- Heart disease and stroke
- High blood pressure
- Slow wound healing
- Severe dehydration, due to increased urination
- Coma and even death in extreme cases
How can proper treatment help?
Properly managing your diabetes can help you avoid the potential consequences of leaving it untreated. With a combination of diet, exercise and medical treatment — such as insulin injections or oral medications — you can keep your glucose levels at healthy levels and therefore reduce your risk of health complications.
Your doctor will be able to recommend the best course of action for managing your diabetes, so make sure to discuss any concerns with them. With the right treatment plan and lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of long-term health problems and enjoy living a full and healthy life.
By taking control of your diabetes treatment now, you can avoid many of the potential consequences associated with leaving it untreated. So be sure to get the help you need for properly managing your diabetes today. With the right support, you can protect your future health and wellbeing.
Tips to manage diabetes naturally:
1. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise helps to keep your blood sugar levels in check and can reduce your risk of diabetes complications. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, five days a week.
2. Eat healthy foods: Eating healthy, balanced meals that are low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates is important for managing diabetes. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet.
3. Monitor your blood sugar levels: Checking your blood sugar levels regularly can help you stay on top of your diabetes management and make it easier to spot any changes in your health.
4. Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of heart and circulatory problems for those with diabetes — so quitting could significantly improve your long-term health prospects.
5. Manage stress: Stress can have a negative impact on both physical and mental health — so make sure to take time out for yourself each day and practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation when needed.
6. Get enough sleep: Getting enough quality sleep is important for keeping your blood sugar levels in check, as well as reducing stress. Aim for at least seven hours each night.
7. Take your medications regularly: Taking any prescribed medications on time and as recommended by your doctor can help you manage your diabetes effectively and reduce the risk of complications.
8. Invest in a glucose monitor: Monitoring your blood sugar levels with a device such as a glucometer can be helpful when it comes to spotting changes quickly and taking action if needed.
9. Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated helps to keep your body functioning properly and regulate blood sugar levels — so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
10. Listen to your body: Finally, make sure to pay close attention to your body and how it is responding to different activities. Knowing the signs of high and low blood glucose can help you act quickly if needed.
By following these tips and working closely with your doctor, you can take control of your diabetes management and enjoy a healthier and happier life.
Conclusion:
Living with diabetes is a demanding responsibility, but with the right combination of diet, exercise and medical treatment — you can manage your condition and reduce the risk of long-term health complications. Taking good care of yourself now can help to protect your future health and wellbeing. Make sure to get advice from your doctor on how to best manage your diabetes and follow these tips for improving your lifestyle today. With the right support, you can enjoy living a full and active life while managing diabetes in the long-term.
