### Common Complications of Type 1 Diabetes People with type 1 diabetes lack the hormone insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Without insulin, blood sugar levels can become very high, leading to a condition called hyperglycemia. Over time, high blood sugar can cause damage to various parts of the body, leading to several complications. #### Nerve Damage (Diabetic Neuropathy) High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels that supply oxygen to your nerves, leading to nerve damage or neuropathy. This can cause numbness, pain, and weakness in your feet, legs, hands, and arms. It can also affect other parts of your body, like your digestive system, heart, and urinary tract. People with diabetes need to take special care of their feet to avoid unnoticed injuries that can become infected. #### Eye Damage (Diabetic Retinopathy) Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. This can cause blurred vision and even blindness. People with diabetes are also more likely to develop cataracts and glaucoma. #### Kidney Damage (Diabetic Nephropathy) High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, leading to kidney disease or nephropathy. This can cause your kidneys to lose their ability to filter waste from your blood. Symptoms may include swelling in different parts of your body. In severe cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be needed. #### Other Complications Type 1 diabetes can also lead to other complications, such as pregnancy issues, including an increased risk of stillbirth, miscarriages, and birth defects if blood sugar is not well-controlled. Managing blood sugar levels through insulin therapy and regular monitoring is crucial to reduce the risk of these complications.