One of my greatest annoyances as a health professional who regularly comes into contact with people suffering from diabetes and its complications, is the blasé attitude that many people have towards it. Although, it is not immediately life-threatening, poorly controlled blood sugar (blood glucose levels) can lead to all sorts of complications, which can eventually lead to death.

Firstly, let’s discuss what diabetes actually is. Diabetes is a disease of the pancreas (which produces and releases insulin). Insulin is a hormone that controls the sugar levels in blood and is released in response to changes in these levels (e.g. after a meal). Type 1 diabetes is often referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes and one that people are usually born with (or diagnosed early in life). It results from a ‘faulty’ pancreas that does not produce the insulin required (therefore, sufferers must inject themselves with insulin). Type 2 is a ‘de-sensitisation’ of the body to high glucose levels, resulting in an inability of the insulin produced by the pancreas to control blood glucose. It is referred to as non-insulin dependent diabetes, or acquired diabetes, and is the type that is caused by obesity, poor diet and/or a sedentary lifestyle.

Facts about Diabetes (Australian Diabetes Council):

-Diabetes is the sixth-highest cause of death by disease in Australia -Diabetics are two times more likely to have cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart disease and stroke) -In 2005, 38,700 Australians were hospitalised for eye complications caused by diabetes, 3,400 had amputations (65 a day) and 23% died from kidney disease. -It is Australia’s fastest growing chronic disease (one person is diagnosed every 5 minutes)

So, what does it do to your feet?

Firstly, it affects the circulation. Excessive blood sugar levels lead to a calcification (hardening) of blood vessels, which are sometimes referred to as ‘lead pipe arteries’. Blood vessels (both big and small) need to be elastic in order to increase or restrict blood flow, and when calcified, they are unable to do this. This results in poor blood flow, and in turn, reduced immune system efficiency and slow healing rates/ tissue breakdown. This is why diabetics suffer from ulcers (tissue loss), gangrene (tissue death), infections and ultimately amputations.

Secondly, poor blood supply affects nerve function. If nerves do not receive the blood that they need to survive, they can ‘die’, leading to neuropathy (nerve disease). This is why diabetics lose feeling in their feet and get tingling, burning or pins and needles.

Lastly, body tissues are affected. Bone is affected by poor blood supply and lack of nutrients, which leads to weakening of bones. Ligaments can also be weakened by high blood sugar. This is why diabetics get foot deformations, and can result in a condition known as charcot foot (one for you to research!)

How do you prevent any of these complications?

Well, it’s simple. Look after yourself and don’t be complacent. Control your blood sugar (healthy levels are between 3.5-7.5 mmol), keep active and eat healthy. These simple things will prevent any unhealthy blood sugar levels and avoid any of the nasty effects of diabetes.