1.3 Describe potential long-term complications to health as a result of having diabetes

This guide will help you answer 1.3 Describe potential long-term complications to health as a result of having diabetes.

Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Over time, this can affect many parts of the body. The longer a person lives with poorly controlled diabetes, the greater the risk of long-term health problems. These complications can be serious and have a major impact on quality of life.

Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can lead to similar long-term problems, although the timing and severity may differ. Good self-management and support from healthcare professionals can help reduce the risks, but it is important to understand what can happen if blood glucose remains high for extended periods.

Cardiovascular Disease

One of the most common long-term problems is heart and blood vessel disease. Diabetes can damage blood vessels and make them narrower. This increases the risk of:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• High blood pressure
• Peripheral artery disease (poor circulation to the arms and legs)

These risks occur because high blood sugar can damage the lining of blood vessels. Fatty deposits then build up more quickly, blocking blood flow. People with diabetes are more likely to develop hardened arteries known as atherosclerosis.

Kidney Damage (Diabetic Nephropathy)

The kidneys filter waste from the blood. High glucose levels over time can damage these filters, called nephrons. Damaged kidneys may not be able to work properly. In severe cases, kidney failure develops and dialysis or a transplant may be needed.

Signs of kidney damage include:

• Protein in urine
• Swelling in feet or hands
• Tiredness
• Nausea

Once kidney damage starts, it can be slow but progressive. This is why people with diabetes have regular urine and blood tests to check kidney function.

Eye Problems (Diabetic Retinopathy)

Diabetes can harm the small blood vessels in the eyes. This damage is known as diabetic retinopathy. If untreated, it can lead to blindness. People with diabetes are more likely to get other eye problems too, such as cataracts and glaucoma.

Early signs include blurred vision or seeing floaters. Often there are no symptoms until damage is advanced. Eye screening once a year in the UK helps detect changes early so treatment can be given.

Nerve Damage (Diabetic Neuropathy)

High blood sugar can harm the nerves throughout the body. This damage may cause:

• Tingling
• Numbness
• Burning pain
• Weakness in muscles

Neuropathy often starts in the feet and hands. This is called peripheral neuropathy. Nerve damage in the digestive system can cause problems with digestion, constipation or diarrhoea. Nerves controlling blood pressure and heart rate can also be affected.

If the nerves in the feet lose feeling, injuries or sores may go unnoticed and become infected. This can lead to severe outcomes including amputation.

Foot Problems

Poor circulation and nerve damage mean foot injuries heal slowly. Infection risk is higher and untreated wounds can worsen. Possible complications include:

• Ulcers
• Gangrene
• Foot deformities

Regular foot checks help spot problems early. In the UK, people with diabetes should have an annual foot examination. Good foot care reduces the risk of losing a limb.

Skin Conditions

Diabetes can make skin more prone to infections such as fungal infections and bacterial sores. Poor blood flow and changes in the immune system slow healing. People may notice itchy skin, rashes or wounds that do not heal well.

Several skin problems are directly linked to diabetes, such as diabetic dermopathy (light brown patches) and necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (red, raised patches).

Gum Disease

High glucose levels can encourage bacteria growth in the mouth. This can lead to gum inflammation known as gingivitis. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis which damages the bone holding teeth in place. Tooth loss can occur.

Signs include bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth and receding gums. Good oral hygiene and regular dentist visits help prevent these problems.

Hearing Loss

Research suggests people with diabetes have a higher risk of hearing loss. This may be linked to damage in blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear. Hearing changes can affect communication and lead to social isolation.

Mental Health Impact

Living with long-term complications can affect emotional wellbeing. People may develop anxiety or depression related to their health. Physical changes such as vision loss or amputation can lead to lower self-esteem and withdrawal from daily activities.

Access to counselling or support groups can help someone cope with these emotional effects.

Sexual Health Problems

In men, nerve and blood vessel damage can cause erectile dysfunction. In women, diabetes can cause vaginal dryness and reduced sexual response. Blood flow and nerve signalling may be affected. These problems can be distressing and reduce quality of life.

Increased Risk of Infections

High glucose levels weaken the immune system. Recovery from simple illnesses like colds may take longer. Skin infections, urinary tract infections and respiratory infections are more common. Good blood sugar control lowers the risk but does not remove it entirely.

Reduced Mobility

Advanced complications such as neuropathy, amputations or cardiovascular disease can limit movement. This affects independence and can increase reliance on care services. Limited mobility can lead to muscle wasting and further health decline.

Cognitive Decline

Some studies link Type 2 diabetes with higher risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This may be connected to changes in blood vessels in the brain or repeated episodes of very high or low blood sugar.

Memory loss, confusion and reduced problem-solving ability can develop over years. Early diagnosis and support with daily tasks are important for safety and wellbeing.

Impact on Daily Living

These long-term complications affect more than health. They can influence work, relationships and self-care. Loss of vision or mobility can make everyday activities harder. Extra support may be needed with shopping, personal care or managing medication.

In care settings, workers must monitor for signs of serious complications and arrange medical review when necessary. Home adaptations or assistive devices may be needed to help the person stay safe.

Prevention and Management

While these complications are serious, many can be delayed or reduced with good management of diabetes. This includes:

• Regular blood sugar monitoring
• Taking medication as prescribed
• Healthy eating
• Regular physical activity
• Avoiding smoking
• Limiting alcohol
• Attending all health checks

Annual checks in the UK typically include eye screening, foot examination, kidney function tests, blood pressure checks and cholesterol tests. Detecting changes early allows for treatment to prevent worsening.

Final Thoughts

Diabetes can have a major impact on long-term health if blood sugar is not managed well. Complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, blindness and nerve damage are real risks that can reduce independence and quality of life.

Understanding these risks helps people take their condition seriously. Simple daily choices like checking glucose levels, eating balanced meals and keeping active can make a huge difference over time. Support from healthcare professionals, family and carers plays a key role in keeping complications at bay.