### Potential Health Complications of Poorly Managed Type 2 Diabetes If type 2 diabetes is not well managed, it can lead to several serious health complications. Here are some of the most common issues: #### 1. **Skin Infections** High blood sugar levels can increase the risk of bacterial and fungal skin infections. Common symptoms include rashes and other skin conditions. #### 2. **Eye Problems** Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. These conditions can cause vision loss over time. #### 3. **Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)** About half of people with diabetes experience some form of nerve damage. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and pain in the extremities. Autonomic neuropathy can affect internal organs like the digestive system and bladder. #### 4. **Kidney Disease** High blood sugar can strain the kidneys, leading to kidney disease. Early stages often show no symptoms, but late-stage kidney disease can cause swelling, fatigue, and other serious issues. #### 5. **Heart Disease and Stroke** People with diabetes are at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke. High blood sugar can damage the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. ### How to Manage Your Risk To lower your risk of these complications, it's crucial to manage your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Here are some tips: - Follow your diabetes treatment plan - Maintain a healthy diet - Exercise regularly - Monitor your blood sugar levels - Attend regular check-ups with your doctor By taking these steps, you can manage your diabetes and reduce the risk of serious health complications.