Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves
throughout your body, leading to a range of health problems.
Fortunately, you can help prevent or delay some of these
complications by maintaining good control of your blood sugar,
looking after your overall health, and getting regular checkups.
The most common long-term complications of diabetes include the
following: Diabetes is the number one cause of new cases of
blindness in people between the ages of 20 and 74. And having
diabetes increases your risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma,
and diabetic retinopathy. These conditions can be treated, but
they may not cause any symptoms until irreversible damage has
been done, so make sure to get your eyes checked at least once a
year. You can also protect your vision by keeping your blood
sugar levels as close to normal as possible. Heart Disease and
Stroke Having diabetes more than doubles your risk of heart
disease and stroke, so work with your healthcare team to make
sure you're doing all you ca