Diabetes and Memory Loss Connection

Diabetes is a very serious condition that is on the rise. Over 23 million people in the United States have diabetes according to the American Diabetes Association. Even more than that has pre-diabetes that will get worse if left untreated. Taking control of diabetes early is the key to preventing complications.

Forgetting to take medication may be the least of your worries if you don't take, and keep, control of your diabetes. Diabetics can develop memory loss and cognitive problems as a complication of the disease.

High blood pressure goes hand in hand with diabetes for many patients. The strain on blood vessels to the brain from high blood pressure leads to strokes. Strokes cause memory problems among other serious complications.

Diabetes can also lead to neuropathy and heart disease, both conditions that affect circulation. Poor circulation to the brain can cause memory and cognitive problems.

It's best to keep tight control over diabetes to prevent the onset of any of the above mentioned complications. If you have already developed any of these conditions you need to take them very seriously and try to do whatever it takes to get them under control.

Exercise and losing weight are the best ways to help control high blood pressure. If your doctor prescribes high blood pressure medication take it as prescribed and do not miss doses! Exercise to help regulate your blood pressure, eat less sodium, and lose any excess weight. If you do all these things you may even be able to come off the medication.

Keep blood sugar readings in normal ranges. By keeping your blood sugar regulated you lessen the chance of developing neuropathy and heart disease. High blood sugar readings cause these conditions! Take control of the foods you eat to help keep yourself alive!

Have regular checkups with your family doctor and ophthalmologist. Sometimes the signs of these conditions can be caught early. If so, you have a better chance of controlling them and avoiding serious problems. Talk with your doctors about any symptoms and ask questions. Be your own advocate.

All of these things are very important. No one wants to be a burden on family members by developing Alzheimer's or early cognitive problems, but it is a very real possibility if you don't control your diabetes. If you don't have family members to help take care of you it's even more pressing that you control your diabetes. Take your health into your own hands. You have to do what it takes to control blood sugar levels, lose weight, and lower blood pressure. Don't give up on yourself! It's never too late to start helping yourself achieve better health.