Diabetes Complication

Symptoms

Treatment Examples

Neuropathy

Numbness or tingling in the feet or hands; burning pain; muscle weakness; loss of reflexes; ulcers; infections; and bone and joint pain.

Medications such as gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine, and amitriptyline; topical creams containing capsaicin; physical therapy to improve muscle strength and coordination; and foot care, including inspecting the feet daily, keeping them clean and dry, and wearing appropriate footwear.

Retinopathy

Blurred vision, vision loss, and floaters

Laser treatment, injections of medications such as ranibizumab, aflibercept, and bevacizumab, and controlling blood sugar and blood pressure levels

Nephropathy

Swelling of the feet, ankles, hands, or face; fatigue, weakness, nausea, and vomiting; persistent itching; high blood pressure; loss of appetite; shortness of breath

Medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs); controlling blood sugar and blood pressure levels; maintaining a healthy weight and diet

Cardiovascular disease

Chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, an irregular heartbeat, fatigue, weakness, swelling in the legs or ankles, and fainting.

Medications such as aspirin, beta-blockers, statins, and ACE inhibitors; and lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly.

Foot complications

Changes in skin color or temperature; swelling, numbness, tingling, or pain in the feet; open sores or wounds that won't heal; and ingrown toenails or fungal infections

Good foot care includes inspecting the feet daily, keeping them clean and dry, wearing appropriate footwear, and seeking prompt treatment for any foot problems.