Type 1 Diabetes: Living With Complications: Cause
Content provided by Healthwise
Cause
Complications from type 1 diabetes are caused by one or both of the following:
- Damage to the lining of the blood vessels throughout your body, causing them to become clogged with hard, fatty deposits called plaques. This process is called atherosclerosis.
- Damage to the nerves (neuropathy) that reduces or blocks their ability to send messages to your organs, legs and arms, and other parts of your body.
This damage results from excess sugar (glucose) in your body.
| Last updated: | November 18, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology & Metabolism |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
