In other words, overall health is greatly influenced by how well diabetes is managed. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to various complications related to blood vessel health. For instance, if blood vessels in the lower limbs are affected, it can result in pain, swelling, and an increased risk of infections and ulcers. Damage to blood vessels in the liver can contribute to conditions like fatty liver disease. When blood vessels in the joints are impacted, it can worsen arthritis and lead to joint degeneration. Complications in the blood vessels of the eyes can cause diabetic retinopathy, potentially leading to impaired vision or blindness. Additionally, diabetes can accelerate skin aging and contribute to other skin issues.
Diabetes-related damage can be unavoidable over time. Persistent high blood sugar levels contribute to complications that affect various organs and systems in the body. Chronic high blood sugar accelerates the aging process and can reduce overall health and mobility. This deterioration can significantly shorten one's lifespan, potentially reducing the expected 120 years to as few as 70. Individuals with poorly managed diabetes may experience even earlier health complications, which can severely impact their overall quality of life.