Avoiding Complications
Diagnosing complications at an early stage
There are a number of complications associated with diabetes, particularly if blood sugar levels are poorly managed. The eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and feet are most at risk.
Regular check-ups are important to ensure an early diagnosis and treatment. Consult with your doctor or diabetes consultant. They can advise you on which specialists you should visit and in which intervals.
Foot Care
Diligent foot care is particularly important
For people with diabetes, it can often be difficult to notice an injury to the foot. This can result in complications, since an untreated injury can become ulcerous, which, in the worst-case scenario, can lead to amputation of some kind.
As a diabetic, you should always take particular care of your feet:
- You should immediately consult with a doctor if you notice any changes to your feet
- Wash your feet for no more than 5 minutes, and only in lukewarm water
- Thoroughly dry your feet after washing
- Use foot-care products
- When caring for your feet, check between your toes and the soles of your feet. If necessary, use a mirror to inspect the soles of your feet, or ask a family member for help
- Never use pointy objects to care for your feet
- Only consult with specialists who are specially trained in foot care in diabetes (podologists). You can obtain contact information from your GP or specialist doctor
- Have your feet regularly examined by your diabetologist or your GP
Relationship and Sexuality
Nerve damage resulting from diabetes can lead to impotency. Men who have once "failed to perform" due to diabetes can also often become fearful of additional embarrassment. The resulting "erectile dysfunction" can put significant strain on a relationship. Today, many impotency disorders can be treated well.
You should therefore not hesitate to consult your doctor about this. He can help you.
Children and juveniles
If your child has diabetes, you need to manage the diabetes in addition to raising your child. Frequently, discussing and dealing with the illness openly can help. Talk to teachers, caregivers, friends and family about diabetes, its treatment and what to do in an emergency. The more people you include in your child's diabetes therapy, the lesser the burden will be on you. Today, children with diabetes are able to lead almost a fully normal life.
Diabetes in the elderly
We live an ageing society. The number of elderly people with diabetes has also been growing for a number of years. Many need their family's support. If you have an elderly relative with diabetes, it is best to work together with your relative and their doctor to discuss the goals of the treatment. You should particularly ensure that your relative’s blood glucose is tested regularly.