Complications of Untreated Diabetes

[KellyThomson]

Dear Doctor-

My father (an extremely active, otherwise healthy man of 71 yrs of age) was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes in early June of this year.  Subsequently, he unfortunately sustained a left hemisphere subcortical lacunar stroke (infarct) at the end of July.  Per his Neurologists' records, "he had no significant stenosis of his carotid arteries and no source of emboli based on his echocardiogram results".

There remains a question, based on his initial and subsequent A1C lab results, his Creatinine level being elevated and certain symptoms he experienced over the past 4+ years that there is a high probability he had been diabetic for quite some time, yet clearly undiagnosed.

Any information you can provide as to the type of complications that can occur when diabetes is left untreated for a period of time would be most appreciated. As we want to educate and prepare ourselves as to what the future holds for my Dad.

Thank you very much for your attention and response.

[KellyThomson]

Thank you for your comment - I posted this in error on the forum as I was trying to post it under the "Ask An Expert" area.  Your response is appreciated though!

[Zoelula]

There are no doctors on this board, only other diabetics. The most important thing for your father is to work with his doctor or endo to control his blood sugars NOW with a combination of carb reduction, exercise, weight loss if needed, oral meds or insulin if needed. Controlled blood sugars now can reduce the accumulation of complications. The complications experienced by diabetics include peripheral neuropathy, eye problems, foot problems, etc. with dire consequences such as amputation and blindness. These results can be avoided by controlling blood sugars.