43 Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes

by Healthful Vitality · Published February 10, 2023 · Updated July 22, 2024

Healthful Vitality | 02/10/2023 | By NP Team | 43 Potential Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes.

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a range of acute and chronic complications that can significantly impact a person’s health and quality of life. This article lists 43 potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes.

Diabetes is a serious condition because it affects various body systems and functions.

The potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes include elevated blood sugar levels that can cause long-term damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, nerves, and other organs.

Additionally, people with diabetes are more likely to experience complications such as heart disease, stroke, amputations, blindness, kidney disease, and gum disease. Moreover, infections and slow healing of wounds, leading to other serious health problems.

43 Potential Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes

Here are the potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes:

1. Cardiovascular disease

People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those without diabetes. This is because high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Therefore, it is essential to control blood sugar levels, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and manage high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels.

2. Nephropathy (kidney disease)

One of the potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes is Nephropathy (kidney disease). Nephropathy can cause a range of symptoms, including protein in the urine, swelling, and high blood pressure, and can eventually lead to kidney failure if left untreated.

3. Neuropathy (nerve damage)

Diabetes and neuropathy (nerve damage) are also closely related, with high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes damaging nerves over time. This can cause a range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands, feet, and other parts of the body.

4. Retinopathy (eye damage)

Diabetes can impact retinopathy (eye damage) causing damage to the blood vessels in the retina over time. This can lead to vision problems, including blurred vision, and in severe cases, even blindness. Therefore, it is important to closely manage blood sugar levels, have regular eye exams, and receive prompt treatment for any vision problems.

5. Foot problems, including foot ulcers

Diabetes and foot problems, including foot ulcers, are closely related due to the increased risk of nerve damage and decreased blood flow associated with high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Foot ulcers can be particularly dangerous for people with diabetes as they can lead to infections and in severe cases, even amputation.

6. Dental disease

People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing gum disease and other oral health problems. High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, forcing it harder for the body to fight off oral infections. Because dental disease is one of the potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, and receiving regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

7. Infections

Diabetes and infections are closely related, with an increased risk of developing infections due to their weakened immune system. High blood sugar levels can also slow the healing process, making it harder for the body to fight off infections and recover from them.

8. Skin complications

People with diabetes are at an increased risk of skin complications, such as dry skin, fungal infections, and slow-healing wounds, due to their weakened immune system and poor blood circulation. It is critical to take steps to protect the skin, such as keeping it moisturized, avoiding tight-fitting clothing, and seeking prompt treatment for any skin problems that arise.

9. Mental health problems, such as depression

The stress of managing the condition and the physical symptoms associated with diabetes can affect a person’s mental health. People with diabetes need to prioritize their mental well-being by seeking support, connecting with others, and seeking professional help, in addition to managing their diabetes to improve overall health and quality of life.

Stroke - A Potential Complication of Uncontrolled Diabetes — Stroke – A Potential Complication of Uncontrolled Diabetes

10. Stroke

High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of stroke. Therefore, it is essential for people with diabetes to closely manage their blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce their risk of stroke and other complications associated with diabetes.

11. Peripheral arterial disease

Diabetes complications include peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD occurs when a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet, reducing blood flow. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of PAD due to the damage that high blood sugar levels can cause to blood vessels. Therefore, it is essential for people with diabetes to closely manage blood sugar levels. Besides, they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and receive regular check-ups to monitor for signs of PAD.

12. Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is another complication of diabetes. It occurs when a person’s breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and daytime fatigue. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of sleep apnea due to the increased likelihood of obesity, a significant risk factor for sleep apnea.

13. Sexual dysfunction

Diabetes complications can include sexual problems. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, including those involved in sexual function. This damage can lead to issues such as erectile dysfunction in men and decreased sexual desire or arousal in both men and women. People with diabetes can communicate openly with their healthcare providers about any sexual problems they are experiencing to address any related sexual dysfunction.

14. Gastroparesis (delayed emptying of the stomach)

High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves that control the muscles in the stomach. This damage can lead to gastroparesis and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fluctuations in blood sugar levels. People with diabetes are advised to closely manage their blood sugar levels, maintain a healthy diet, and seek prompt medical attention if they are experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis.

15. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a common complication of diabetes. Particularly, in those who take insulin or other medications to manage their blood sugar levels. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels fall too low, leading to shakiness, sweating, confusion, and headache. Therefore, it is critical for people with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, carry quick sources of sugar, such as glucose gel or candy, to treat hypoglycemia. And seek prompt medical attention if they are experiencing severe or persistent hypoglycemia.

16. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)

Diabetes and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) are closely related, with hyperglycemia being a hallmark of uncontrolled diabetes. Hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels rise too high, leading to symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision. By recognizing and managing hyperglycemia effectively, people with diabetes can reduce the risk of complications and improve their overall health and well-being.

17. Ketoacidosis (a serious condition caused by high levels of ketones in the blood)

Ketoacidosis is a serious complication of uncontrolled diabetes. Notably, ketoacidosis occurs when the body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones, which can build up and become toxic, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and shortness of breath. People with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, seek prompt medical attention if they are experiencing symptoms of ketoacidosis.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease- A Potential Complication of Uncontrolled Diabetes

18. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Diabetes can impact nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with NAFLD being a common complication of uncontrolled diabetes. NAFLD occurs when too much fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation, scarring, and eventually liver damage.

19. Polycystic ovary syndrome (in women)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another complication of uncontrolled diabetes in women. PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by the formation of cysts in the ovaries. PCOS can lead to symptoms such as irregular periods, excess hair growth, and weight gain.

20. Glaucoma

The complications of uncontrolled diabetes include glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma can lead to vision loss, especially peripheral vision. People with diabetes are advised to have regular eye exams, manage their blood sugar levels effectively, and adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to reduce the risk of developing glaucoma and other eye problems.

21. Cataracts

Diabetes is a risk factor for developing cataracts, a common eye condition characterized by clouding the lens. Cataracts can lead to vision loss and eventual blindness. People with diabetes need regular eye exams and a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of developing cataracts and other eye problems.

22. Macular edema (swelling of the central part of the retina)

Diabetes is a risk factor for the development of macular edema. Macular edema develops in people with diabetes when the central part of the retina swells, leading to vision loss, especially in the center of the visual field. By prioritizing their eye health, people with diabetes can improve their overall well-being and prevent vision loss.

23. Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (a life-threatening complication of uncontrolled diabetes)

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus that occurs when blood sugar levels become extremely high, leading to an excessive buildup of sugar in the blood and an excessive loss of fluid from the body. Symptoms of HHS include extreme thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth, confusion, drowsiness, and in severe cases, coma. HHS is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment with insulin and fluids to lower blood sugar levels and prevent further complications.

24. Hypoglycemic unawareness (reduced ability to recognize symptoms of low blood sugar)

Hypoglycemic unawareness is a condition that occurs in some people with diabetes when their body does not produce enough warning signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). It makes it for people with hypoglycemic unawareness to recognize when their blood sugar levels are low and to take appropriate action to raise them. Indeed, this can lead to serious health consequences, including loss of consciousness, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. People with diabetes who experience hypoglycemic unawareness should work with their healthcare provider to adjust their diabetes management plan to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.

25. Gastrointestinal problems

Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, can occur in people with diabetes due to various factors, including high blood sugar levels, medications, and nerve damage. For example, Gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, is a common gastrointestinal problem in people with diabetes and can lead to symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and vomiting. Other gastrointestinal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease, can also be more common in people with diabetes.

26. Respiratory complications

Respiratory complications can occur in people with diabetes due to various factors, including high blood sugar levels, nerve damage, and infections. Some common respiratory complications of diabetes include pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma. In addition, people with diabetes are also at an increased risk for sleep apnea, a condition in which a person stops breathing for short periods during sleep, which can further impact their respiratory health.

27. Wound healing difficulties

Wound healing difficulties can occur in people with diabetes due to decreased blood circulation and nerve damage. At this level, high blood sugar levels can also impair the body’s ability to fight off infections, making it more difficult for wounds to heal. This can lead to a higher risk of amputations and other serious complications in people with diabetes, highlighting the importance of proper wound care and blood sugar management in this population.

28. Hearing loss

Hearing loss is a complication of diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear. Obviously, this can lead to a decline in hearing ability over time, and individuals with uncontrolled diabetes may experience more severe and rapid hearing loss compared to those without the condition. Therefore, early detection and effective management of diabetes are crucial in reducing the risk of hearing loss and other related complications.

29. Cognitive decline and dementia

Cognitive decline and dementia are potential complications of diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the brain, leading to decreased blood flow and eventual brain damage. Studies have shown that individuals with uncontrolled diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cognitive decline and dementia, especially in old age. Effective management of diabetes through lifestyle changes, regular monitoring, and medication can help reduce the risk of these complications.

30. Higher risk of certain cancers

Diabetes shows link to a higher risk of certain types of cancers, including liver, pancreas, endometrial, and colorectal cancer. This can be due to the chronic inflammation and oxidative stress associated with high blood sugar levels, as well as other lifestyle and metabolic factors. Maintaining good blood sugar control, engaging in physical activity, and eating a healthy diet may help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers in people with diabetes.

Bone and Joint Problems - A Potential Complication of Uncontrolled Diabetes — Bone and Joint Problems – A Potential Complication of Uncontrolled Diabetes

31. Bone and joint problems

Diabetes can lead to bone and joint problems, such as an increased risk of fractures, osteoporosis, and joint pain. In addition, the high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage bones, reduce joint mobility, and increase the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders.

32. Diabetic muscle infarction (muscle death due to blocked blood flow)

Diabetes can lead to diabetic muscle infarction, a condition in which muscle tissue dies due to blocked blood flow. This condition can result in muscle weakness, pain, and a reduced range of motion and is more likely to occur in people with uncontrolled diabetes.

33. Mononeuropathy (damage to a single nerve)

Mononeuropathy is a condition in which damage to a single nerve occurs, leading to pain, weakness, or numbness in the affected area. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing mononeuropathy due to the effects of elevated blood sugar levels on the nervous system.

34. Polyneuropathy (damaged nerves in multiple parts of the body)

Diabetes can lead to Polyneuropathy, a condition where multiple nerves throughout the body are damaged, leading to symptoms such as tingling, burning, weakness, and numbness in the feet and hands. If left untreated, Polyneuropathy can lead to difficulty with walking, standing, and even breathing, making it a severe and potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes.

35. Diabetic amyotrophy (nerve damage that causes muscle weakness and wasting)

Diabetes can increase the risk of diabetic amyotrophy, a condition in which nerve damage leads to muscle weakness and wasting. This can result in difficulty with activities of daily living and mobility. Treatment for diabetic amyotrophy includes managing blood sugar levels, physical therapy, and pain management.

36. Diabetic dermopathy (skin changes, such as patches of dark, scaly skin)

Diabetic dermopathy is a skin condition that affects people with diabetes. It is characterized by patches of dark, scaly skin that develop on the front of the legs. The condition is caused by small blood vessel damage and is a result of uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

37. Acanthosis nigricans (dark, velvety skin)

Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterized by thick, dark patches of skin, often found in body folds and creases. People with diabetes, especially those with uncontrolled blood sugar levels, have a higher risk of developing acanthosis nigricans.

38. Xanthelasma (yellow deposits of fat under the skin, usually around the eyes)

Xanthelasma is a skin condition that is associated with high levels of cholesterol and lipids in the blood. People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing this condition due to their increased likelihood of having elevated levels of cholesterol and lipids.

39. Lipohypertrophy (lumps of fatty tissue under the skin)

Lipohypertrophy is another complication in people with diabetes. Important to realize that lipohypertrophy is the development of lumps of fatty tissue under the skin. This condition often occurs at insulin injection sites and can interfere with the absorption of insulin, leading to fluctuations in blood sugar levels and increasing the risk of complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

40. Lipoatrophy (loss of fatty tissue under the skin)

Lipoatrophy is a condition with a loss of subcutaneous fat under the skin, which can occur in people with diabetes. This can result in changes in body shape and skin texture and impact insulin absorption. Effective management of diabetes, including regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and proper administration of insulin, can help reduce the risk of lipoatrophy.

41. Diabetic bullae (blisters)

Diabetic bullae are fluid-filled blisters that can occur in people with diabetes. They are usually caused by diabetic dermopathy or a fungal infection and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Proper wound care and close monitoring by a healthcare professional are important in preventing and managing diabetic bullae.

42. Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (a skin condition that causes raised, yellowish patches)

Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum is a skin condition that affects people with diabetes, causing raised, yellowish patches to form on the skin. The patches are often itchy and painful, and can lead to skin thickening, discoloration, and ulceration. It is important for individuals with diabetes to monitor their skin for any changes and seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum.

43. Nail problems, such as fungal infections and slow nail growth

People with diabetes may be at higher risk of developing nail problems, such as fungal infections and slow nail growth. These problems can occur due to circulation issues and weakened immune systems caused by uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

The potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes listed above demonstrate that diabetes is a chronic disease that can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly. For example, it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage, among others.

Therefore, people with diabetes need to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, monitor blood sugar levels regularly, take medications as prescribed, and reduce stress.

This list is not exhaustive and the specific complications that a person with diabetes may experience can vary depending on several factors, such as the type and duration of their diabetes, as well as their overall health.

It is important for people with diabetes to work closely with their healthcare provider to prevent and manage these complications.

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