Diabetes is a significant health problem on its own. Unfortunately, it also places people at risk for other health problems. These are seven health problems to watch for whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

1. Cardiovascular disease. This includes heart attacks, strokes, and blood vessel disease.
2. Diabetic eye problems. Including retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.
3. Kidney disease. Unfortunately, the symptoms of kidney disease often do not appear until the advanced stages. You’ll need to work with your physician to identify early signs of the disease.
4. Nerve damage. Diabetic neuropathy can cause loss of feeling in the hands, arms, feet, and legs at early stages but can also advance to impact the function of major organs.
5. Dry skin and other skin health problems. It may not sound that bad, but your skin is your first line of defense against many other infections and illnesses. When your skin’s health is compromised, your overall health is too.
6. Tooth decay and gum infections. Poor oral health is linked to heart disease and is a common problem for diabetics.
7. Infections that require amputation. Most commonly, these infections begin with problems in the feet that are slow to heal and become infected. Over time, the infection spreads, often undetected, until amputation is the only means to stop the spread of the infection.

Prevention is the best cure. The best way to prevent these complications and diabetes-related health problems is to keep your sugar under control at all times.