Diabetes complications: signs, prevention, and practical steps
If you have diabetes, the long-term effects can show up in many places—your eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and feet. The good news: most complications are predictable and often preventable with steady care. This page gives clear, practical steps you can use today.
Common complications and what they feel like
Eyes: Blurred vision or floaters can mean diabetic retinopathy. Get a dilated eye exam at least once a year. Early problems often have no symptoms, so don’t wait.
Kidneys: High blood sugar can damage kidneys over time. Your doctor will check urine for albumin and measure eGFR. Small changes on these tests are an early warning—catching them early helps slow damage.
Nerves: Tingling, numbness, burning, or pain in your feet and hands often means neuropathy. That raises the risk of unnoticed cuts and infections.
Heart and blood vessels: Diabetes raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes. High blood pressure and high cholesterol make this worse. Controlling numbers and taking prescribed meds cuts risk.
Simple daily habits that reduce risk
Blood sugar control is the most powerful tool. Check levels as your care team recommends. If you’re aiming for A1c goals, talk to your provider about a safe target—often under 7% for many adults, but it varies by person.
Watch blood pressure and cholesterol. A sensible target, healthy eating, activity, and medications when needed protect your heart and kidneys. If you’re over 40 or have other risks, ask about a statin.
Take care of your feet daily. Look for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Wash and dry feet, moisturize dry skin (not between toes), and wear comfortable shoes. See a clinician for any sore that doesn’t improve in a few days.
Keep up with screenings: yearly eye exams, regular kidney and foot checks, and heart risk reviews. Vaccines like flu and pneumonia shots lower the chance that an infection will spiral into something bigger.
Manage nerve pain and other symptoms—there are safe medicines and non-drug options. For wounds or infections, act fast. People with diabetes can develop infections that spread quickly, so don’t wait to get care.
Small lifestyle steps add up: walk 20–30 minutes most days, choose whole foods over processed ones, limit sugary drinks, and quit smoking. These habits improve blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol all at once.
If you notice new symptoms—sudden vision changes, foot sores, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe weakness, or confusing blood sugars—seek medical help right away. Early action makes a big difference.
Want personalized steps? Bring a list of your readings and meds to your next visit. Your care team can help set targets and make a plan that fits your life.
