### How Diabetes Affects Your Body and Why You Should Treat It Diabetes is a chronic condition that can have widespread effects on your body. Here’s why it’s crucial to manage and treat it effectively. #### Blood Sugar Levels When you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells absorb sugar (glucose) from your bloodstream to use for energy. Without proper insulin function, glucose builds up in your blood, leading to high blood sugar levels. #### Cardiovascular System High blood sugar can damage your blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart. This increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Managing your blood sugar levels can help reduce these risks. #### Kidneys Your kidneys filter waste from your blood. High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in your kidneys, leading to kidney disease or even kidney failure. Proper treatment can help protect your kidneys. #### Eyes Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to diabetic retinopathy, which can cause blindness. Regular eye exams and blood sugar management are essential to prevent this. #### Nerves High blood sugar can cause nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. This can result in pain, tingling, or numbness, especially in your hands and feet. Managing your diabetes can help prevent or delay nerve damage. #### Skin Diabetes can make you more susceptible to skin infections and other skin disorders. Keeping your blood sugar levels in check and maintaining good skin care can help. #### Mental Health Living with diabetes can be stressful and may lead to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Proper management of your condition can improve your overall well-being. #### Why Treatment is Important Treating diabetes is crucial to prevent complications. Medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring can help you keep your blood sugar levels within a target range. This can prevent or delay the onset of complications and improve your quality of life. If you suspect you have diabetes or are struggling to manage it, consult your healthcare provider for a treatment plan tailored to your needs.