Atherosclerosis / ArteriosclerosisDiabetes increases the risk of atherosclerosis. It is a disease in which fatty material, such as cholesterol, is deposited along the walls of arteries, forming plaques and atheromas. The arteries are flexible, elastic and carry oxygen and nutrient around the body. In diabetes, hyperglycaemia, the high blood sugar damages the arteries making them thick, hard and rigid. This rigidity plus the fatty deposits on the walls of the artery makes it more difficult for blood to pass through the vessels resulting in damage to the major organs. It could result in stroke or even cause heart attack.The narrowing of the blood vessels can affect any part of the body, including the eyes, kidneys and legs. It is referred to as peripheral arteriosclerosis disease (PAD). The loss of elasticity or the hardening of the blood vessels can also contribute to the development of hypertension (high blood pressure) and erectile dysfunction. Symptoms may include: • Chest pain (angina), • Numbness or weakness in arms and legs, • Slurred speech, • Drooping muscles in your face, or • leg pain when walking These are just some of the complications of diabetes. The best way to prevent these complications is to manage your blood glucose levels if you are a diabetic.
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