Why Diabetes is Dangerous Even for Those Who Feel Healthy
Type 2 diabetes is often perceived as a manageable condition with medication and minor lifestyle changes. However, even when patients feel well, diabetes can silently cause severe complications. This was confirmed in the case of a 70-year-old patient who felt healthy but was found to have critical heart and kidney damage during a medical examination.
The woman led an active lifestyle and believed her diabetes was well-controlled with insulin and metformin—a common diabetes medication. She also took medication for high blood pressure. After her diagnosis, she managed to lose weight from 105 kg to 90 kg, which she thought had positively impacted her health.
However, laboratory results showed her glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level was 9, whereas the normal value is below 6, indicating poor diabetes control. Significant kidney dysfunction was also detected, with her kidneys functioning at only 25% of their normal capacity. In such cases, medication adjustments are necessary, as some drugs, including metformin, can accumulate in the body when kidney function declines, leading to complications.
“Are You Saying I Need Dialysis?”
“The patient was shocked by these results, as she had been regularly monitored by doctors. Somewhat ironically, she asked if she now needed dialysis (a blood purification procedure for kidney failure). I told her that many patients in her condition never even reach dialysis—they die of a heart attack first. She was frightened and asked for help,” recalls Professor Dr. Stephan Martin, Chief Physician and Director of the West German Diabetes and Health Center.
Impaired kidney function in diabetics often signals heart problems as well. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels, causing inflammation and atherosclerotic plaque formation. This can lead to circulatory disorders, as well as damage to the eyes, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.
An additional ECG examination revealed severe heart failure, requiring urgent cardiological intervention. The patient was immediately fitted with a pacemaker due to the high risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Modern Approaches to Diabetes Treatment
In recent years, new medications have been developed that not only lower blood sugar levels but also protect the kidneys and cardiovascular system. If such drugs had been introduced earlier, the risk of severe complications could have been significantly reduced. According to statistics, nearly half of all cases of kidney failure requiring dialysis are caused by diabetes, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and proper therapy.
After adjusting her treatment, the patient began taking medications that help protect the kidneys and changed her diet. She eliminated high-glycemic foods such as sugar, bread, potatoes, and pasta. As a result, she no longer needed insulin, and her blood sugar level dropped to 7. Additionally, her kidney function improved, offering hope that dialysis could be avoided.
This case highlights the importance of comprehensive monitoring for diabetic patients. It is not enough to track blood sugar levels alone — regular kidney and cardiovascular system assessments are crucial in preventing potential complications.
Source: Catholic Clinical Complex