Complications

Managing type 2 diabetes isn’t just about monitoring blood sugar, it’s also about taking steps to prevent long-term complications, such as neuropathy, kidney disease, cardiovascular issues, and eye problems.

Regular check-ups, screenings, and consistent lifestyle habits like healthy eating, staying active, and controlling blood pressure are crucial.

Learn more about common T2D complications and consider discussing with your healthcare provider which screenings are right for you.

How do you stay proactive in preventing complications? Share your tips and strategies, and connect with others navigating similar challenges.

Recognizing the signs is crucial as they can come on quickly and vary by person, sometimes even being absent.

Mild hypoglycemia symptoms are like a "fight or flight" response, including trembling, sweating, and anxiety.

Moderate hypoglycemia affects the brain, causing confusion, weakness, and dizziness.

Severe hypoglycemia is a medical emergency (blood sugar typically below 2.8 mmol/L) requiring assistance from another person to administer glucagon; call an emergency immediately.

If you suspect a low, confirm with your glucometer. If it's below 4.0 mmol/L, treat with 15 grams of fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, regular juice, honey). Wait 15 minutes, recheck, and if still low, repeat the treatment. Once your blood sugar is above 4.0 mmol/L, eat a snack or meal within an hour to prevent another drop.

If you’re living with type 2 diabetes in British Columbia and want to stay ahead of potential complications, check out HealthLink BC’s Diabetes Complications guide.

It clearly explains how prolonged high blood sugar can damage various systems in your body, eyes (retinopathy, glaucoma), blood vessels (heart attack, stroke), nerves (neuropathy), feet (ulcers, infections), kidneys (nephropathy), and even your immune defences, along with tips for prevention and when to seek medical help.

The resource also emphasizes the importance of regular check‑ups, early detection, and effective blood sugar control to avoid or slow the progression of these issues

People with diabetes face a higher risk for dental health issues and gum disease.

This is often a direct result of higher blood sugars related to diabetes, whether that’s a long-term complication of diabetes that you’ve lived with for many years or a potential signal that you’ve developed prediabetes or diabetes.

People with diabetes are more likely to experience cavities and tooth decay, mouth ulcers, gum disease, dry mouth, bad breath, or the fungal infection of oral thrush.

However, you can help improve your dental health by maintaining dental hygiene habits — including daily brushing and flossing — and keeping blood sugars in the target range.

www.healthline.com

People with diabetes are at greater risk for dental health and related complications.