Acute Risks and Long-Term Challenges in Diabetes

At the beginning of the program, Dr. Sunil Gupta explained that the complications of diabetes are of two types: acute complications, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and diabetic ketoacidosis especially in Type 1DM, both of which can cause sudden and immediate danger. Chronic complications develop slowly over time and affect the eyes, kidneys, heart, brain, and nerves. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar falls below 70 mg/dl, and the main causes could be drug-induced, like insulin or sulfonylurea group of drugs, skipping of the meal, excessive exercise, vomiting or diarrhea, and due to use of drugs like painkillers (analgesics) or a few antibiotics along with glucose-lowering drugs. However, the risk of hypoglycemia has become lower with the use of newer medications compared to older ones. In response to audience questions, it was emphasized that the decision to stop or reduce medication should always be made under the supervision of a doctor. People with prediabetes (HbA1c 5.7–6.4%) can often avoid developing diabetes altogether through timely lifestyle changes. If diabetes runs in the family, the risk of children developing it at an early age is significantly higher. The importance of an annual health check-up covering the eyes, heart, kidneys, and feet was stressed, described as the “greatest gift” a person with diabetes can give themselves is of “Good Health.” When anemia coexists with diabetes, fatigue and complications tend to worsen, making it essential to identify the underlying cause and provide treatment. In cases of leg pain or neuropathy, vitamin deficiencies, blood vessel health, and side effects of a few medicines like statin should all be carefully evaluated. Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta Anchor- Mrs. Kalyani Gokhale Podcast: 27/06/2025 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur Episode: 78