Understanding Diabetes Mellitus Complications

Sep 6, 2024

Chronic Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

Overview

  • Diabetes mellitus leads to long-term complications.
  • Three main categories:
    • Macrovascular
    • Microvascular
    • Neuropathic

Macrovascular Complications

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
  • Cerebrovascular Disease (CVD)
  • Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)
  • These involve larger blood vessels and are characterized by:
    • Atherosclerotic changes
    • Plaque occlusion leading to restricted blood flow

Microvascular Complications

  • Affected areas: Retinas, kidneys, fingers, toes
  • Conditions:
    • Diabetic Retinopathy
      • Damage to retina due to poor blood flow
      • Management: Regular eye exams, blood glucose control, cessation of smoking
    • Nephropathy
      • Damage to kidney blood vessels
      • Management: Blood sugar control, hypertension management, avoidance of nephrotoxic medications

Neuropathic Complications

  • Cause: Damage to blood vessels affecting nerves
  • Peripheral Neuropathy:
    • Loss of feeling in fingers/toes, moving inward
    • Symptoms: Tingling, burning, numbness
    • Management: Blood glucose control, pain management with medications like gabapentin
  • Autonomic Neuropathy:
    • Problems with balance, digestion, and hypoglycemic unawareness
    • Cardiac and GI symptoms due to nervous system damage

Foot Problems and Infection Risk

  • Diabetic Foot Ulcers:
    • High risk due to neuropathy, poor blood supply, and infection
    • Management: Daily foot inspection, proper footwear, wound care
  • Amputation Risk:
    • 50-75% of lower extremity amputations in diabetics

Management Strategies

  • Blood Sugar Control: Central to managing complications
  • Lifestyle: Diet, exercise, smoking cessation
  • Medical Care: Regular exams, managing concurrent conditions (e.g., hypertension, infections)

Visuals and Anatomy References

  • Healthy vs. diseased kidney anatomy
  • Glomerulus and nephron unit functionality

Conclusion

  • Diabetes complications are extensive, affecting various body systems
  • Effective management requires a comprehensive approach, focusing on prevention and early intervention.