Diabetes, which manifests itself with many different symptoms and can cause serious health problems if left untreated for a long time, also may present with recurrent infections.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that can affect your health in more ways than one. Sudden spikes in blood sugar levels can affect the function of your organs and expose us to numerous health problems.
Long-term high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can damage organs and nerves. The symptoms of type 1 or type 2 diabetes are quite similar, so the risks of developing complications are the same.
Recurring infections can be caused by diabetes
In some cases, hyperglycemia can also lead to recurrent infections in the body. Recurring infections can be a hallmark of undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes.
Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot make or use insulin to convert sugar into energy. It leads to an increase in the level of sugar in the blood and the symptoms manifest in different ways.
Persistently high blood sugar reduces the body’s ability to fight infection. When pathogens enter the body, they acquire a suitable environment to multiply and develop an infection.
3 classes of infections indicative of diabetes
When diabetes is not controlled or detected, episodes of infection are more frequent. The bladder, kidneys, vagina, gums, feet, and skin are common sites of infection.
Here are three infections that are common in a diabetic patient who does not control their blood glucose levels well on a sustained basis.
1. Fungal infections
Fungal infections are a candidiasis that can develop in different parts of the body, such as armpits, fingers, mouth and genital area. The condition leads to a white discharge.
In the case of diabetes, it is usually found around the genitals in men and women and causes itching, irritation, pain and burning during sexual intercourse or when urinating. Men can also experience an unpleasant odor.
The infection is caused by a type of fungus called candida, which thrives in warm, moist conditions.
2. Urinary Tract Infections
People with diabetes also experience cystitis, which is an inflammation of the bladder and is classified as a type of urinary tract infection.
The most common symptoms of urinary tract infections are pain, burning, or stinging when urinating. In addition, other symptoms include frequent urination and dark, cloudy, or strong-smelling urine.
You can even feel pain in the lower abdomen. Mild cases of urinary tract infections may go away on their own, while severe cases require medical attention.
3. Foot infections
Uncontrolled diabetes also causes foot infections that affect soft tissue or bone. Often the infection develops in the skin area. About 15 to 25 percent of people with diabetes also develop foot ulcers.
Moderate to severe infections and wounds can be easily treated with antibiotics. In the case of uncontrolled diabetes, the risk of recurrent infections is high.
How to protect yourself from infections
The most important thing you can do to prevent infections is to control your blood sugar levels and take your medications on time. If your blood sugar level is under control, the risk of infection will be lower.
Other than that, maintain proper hygiene. Since diabetics are more susceptible to infection, it is best to take precautions to avoid infection due to poor hygiene. Wear socks and treat your feet in a timely manner to avoid bumps and scrapes.