Reference no: EM133444646

Describe the physical and psychological complications related to diabetes mellitus & What are the potential physical and psychosocial complications that should be discussed with the patient regarding their diagnosis and treatment plan?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that results in inappropriately elevated blood glucose levels. Untreated elevated blood glucose levels negatively impact the functioning of many body systems. Diabetes can cause heart disease, chronic kidney disease, nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), gum disease, and damage to vision and hearing (retinopathy). Psychologically, people with diabetes are more likely to experience mental health problems, depression, anxiety, and have eating disorders (Touhey, 2018). Psychological stress reduction and self-management are important coping skills for people with diabetes to have (Kalra, 2018). In order to mitigate complications, it is important for diabetics to manage their blood sugar (via medication and diet) and adopt positive self care strategies (quit smoking, exercise, manage stress).