How High Blood Sugar Damages Your Organs: Risks You Should Know

Understanding Blood Sugar and How the Damage Begins

Blood sugar, or glucose, is the fuel our body runs on. We usually get it from the carbohydrates present in the food and drinks we consume. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, facilitates the movement of glucose from the blood to the cells, where it is utilized as an energy source.

The issue is that if the production of insulin becomes inadequate or the cells of the body develop resistance to the effect of insulin, problems arise. When glucose is not effectively removed from the blood, it begins to build up and interfere with the regular functioning of cells, like changes in the blood vessel walls, inflammatory substance production, and reduced oxygen supply to tissues. These problems indirectly lead to development of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes related ‍‌‍‍‌complications.

How High Blood Sugar Harms the Body Over Time

Constant ‌high blood sugar triggers a series of events in the body. Sugar molecules interact with proteins and fats in the blood, thus changing their shape and function. This brings about the creation of free radicals, inflammation, and the body’s healing capacity goes ‍‌‍‍‌down.

Now, let’s study the effects of uncontrolled blood sugar on different ‍‌‍‍‌organs.

1. Heart and Blood Vessels

High blood sugar is one of the factors, raising the risk of developing heart disease. It causes artery constriction, abnormal cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure. Thus, it increases the chances of heart attacks, strokes, and poor circulation in the legs, etc., in people with diabetes. In fact, cardiovascular problems are the primary cause of morbidity in diabetic patients.

2. Brain and Mental Health

The brain requires a constant blood flow for its best performance. The damage caused to the blood vessels by diabetes can lead to less blood flow in the brain, which in turn, causes cognitive impairment. Besides, diabetes can also be emotionally challenging and can lead to anxiety and depression. If these emotional issues remain unresolved, they can further deteriorate blood sugar ‍‌control.

3. Eyes and Vision

Consistently‍‌‍‍‌ high levels of blood sugar can cause the small and delicate blood vessels in the retina to become damaged. When diabetic retinopathy is in its initial phases, it usually doesn’t result in any symptoms but if the illness is progressed, it can lead to the loss of sight or blindness. Besides, diabetes is a major contributing factor to the development of cataracts and glaucoma, and in some instances, people with diabetes can develop these conditions earlier than the average ‍‌‍‍‌age.

4. Kidneys

The kidneys are like filters that remove the waste and keep the necessary nutrients. When blood sugar is high, the filters get a heavy work load and as a result, they become thick and less efficient. Diabetic kidney disease may start without showing any symptoms and if it is ignored, it may lead to kidney failure.

5. Feet and Skin

Poor blood circulation and nerve damage are responsible for making feet so susceptible. Small cuts and blisters may be left untreated and due to the slow healing process causing ulcers and infections. Moreover, dry and cracked skin makes the skin look unhealthy but also weakens the body’s natural defense leaving it susceptible to ‍‌‍‍‌infections.

6. Oral Health

The uncontrolled blood sugar levels offer a breeding ground for bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections. Besides, inflamed gums also worsen blood glucose control, further confirming the strong relationship between oral health and diabetes.

7. Hearing and Immune Function

The high blood sugar levels also slows down the blood supply, causing nerve damage in the ears, eventually resulting in hearing loss. On top of that, diabetes impairs the immune system so infections become more frequent and healing takes ‍‌‍‍‌longer. 

Diabetes in Young Adults: A Growing Concern

Diabetes in Young Adults is no longer a rare condition. It has been on the rise due to overweight, unhealthy habits, stress, and family history of the disease. One of the grave issues with early-onset diabetes is that the victim’s body organs get exposed to very high sugar levels for an extended period, resulting in a significantly higher risk of complications over the lifetime. A correct diagnosis at an early stage, regular check-ups, and appropriate treatment by an experienced endocrinologist are some of the major factors that can help in avoiding serious illness and maintaining one’s life ‍‌‍‍‌standards.

Warning Signs That Should Prompt Diabetes Testing

Diabetes progresses silently without any complications. Medical check-up should be the first step if you notice any of the following signs:

• Unrelenting thirst or extremely increased appetite
• Frequent urination
• Unexplained loss or gain of weight
• Constant tiredness or lack of energy
• Eyesight getting worse
• Slow healing of wounds or regular ‍‌‍‍‌infections

Final Thoughts

High blood sugar might not produce symptoms for a long time, still its impact may be serious if neglected. The positive aspect is that with timely identification, regular control, and medical advice, the majority of complications can be avoided or delayed. 

Sarvesh Health City is considered the best endocrinology hospital in Hisar that provides a full range of care for Type 1 vs Type 2 diabetes and also offers tailor-made treatment for diabetes in young adults.