CHAPTER 24 — EYE, NERVE & FOOT PROTECTION: PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS EARLY Type 2 Diabetes can affect the eyes, nerves, skin, and feet — often silently. The purpose of this chapter is simple: to show how to prevent complications early, how to check for warning signs, and how to build daily routines that protect long term health. THE BIG PICTURE Most diabetes complications develop slowly. They are influenced by:
- Glucose levels over years.
- Blood pressure.
- Cholesterol.
- Smoking.
- Weight and liver fat.
- Sleep and stress.
Good news:
- Complications are not guaranteed.
- Many are preventable.
- Some can improve or stabilise with the right actions.
- Early detection makes a huge difference.
This chapter focuses on three major areas: eyes, nerves, and feet. SECTION 1 — EYE HEALTH (RETINOPATHY & VISION PROTECTION) WHY THE EYES ARE AT RISK High glucose weakens tiny blood vessels in the retina. Over time this can lead to:
- Blurred vision.
- Small haemorrhages.
- Fluid leakage.
- Vision loss if untreated.
However:
- Many early changes cause no pain.
- Eye damage can be prevented or treated early.
ESSENTIAL EYE CARE ROUTINE 1. Annual eye exam A dilated eye exam or retinal photograph once per year (or more often if advised). 2. Glucose control Stable glucose protects the retina more than anything else. 3. Blood pressure control High blood pressure accelerates eye damage. 4. Cholesterol management High LDL and triglycerides worsen retinal swelling. 5. Report symptoms early Examples:
- Sudden blurred vision.
- Dark spots or “floaters”.
- Flashes of light.
- Difficulty seeing at night.
6. Avoid smoking Smoking increases the risk of severe retinopathy. TREATMENTS IF NEEDED If changes are found, treatments may include:
- Laser therapy.
- Injections to reduce swelling.
- Surgery in advanced cases.
Early treatment works extremely well — another reason yearly checks are vital. SECTION 2 — NERVE HEALTH (NEUROPATHY PREVENTION) WHAT IS NEUROPATHY? Neuropathy is nerve damage caused by:
- High glucose.
- Poor blood flow.
- Oxidative stress and inflammation.
Common symptoms:
- Tingling.
- Numbness.
- Burning pain.
- Reduced sensation in feet or hands.
THE THREE MAIN TYPES 1. Peripheral neuropathy — affects legs/feet most often. 2. Autonomic neuropathy — affects digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, sweating. 3. Focal neuropathy — sudden weakness or pain in specific nerves. HOW TO PROTECT YOUR NERVES 1. Improve glucose stability Large swings damage nerves more than stable glucose, even at similar averages. 2. Support circulation Daily walking, leg movement, hydration. 3. Maintain healthy blood pressure. 4. Avoid smoking. Nicotine severely reduces blood supply to nerves. 5. Check feet daily for:
- Cuts
- Cracks
- Dry skin
- Redness
- Blisters
6. Moisturise feet but NOT between toes (to prevent fungal growth). 7. Report nerve symptoms early. Early-stage neuropathy can often be slowed or improved. SECTION 3 — FOOT PROTECTION (THE MOST IMPORTANT DAILY HABIT) WHY FEET ARE AT RISK Feet are vulnerable because:
- Nerve damage reduces sensation.
- Poor circulation delays healing.
- Small injuries can become serious quickly.
DAILY FOOT CARE ROUTINE 1. Inspect your feet every day Look for:
- Cuts
- Blisters
- Cracks
- Red patches
- Changes in shape or colour
Use a mirror if needed. 2. Wash and dry carefully Dry well, especially between toes. 3. Moisturise soles and heels. 4. Wear clean socks daily Avoid tight elastic bands. 5. Choose safe footwear:
- Closed shoes preferred.
- Avoid walking barefoot, even at home.
- Shoes should fit well — not rubbing or tight.
6. Trim nails carefully Straight across, not rounded. Seek help if eyesight is poor. WHEN TO SEEK HELP IMMEDIATELY
- Ulcers (open sores).
- Foot swelling.
- Skin turning black, blue, or red.
- Fever with foot injury.
- Sudden pain or numbness.
These require urgent medical attention. SECTION 4 — HEART & BLOOD VESSEL PROTECTION (BRIEF OVERVIEW) Although the chapter focuses on eyes, nerves, and feet, the heart is also a major target of diabetes-related damage. Key protection steps:
- Lower A1C safely.
- Improve cholesterol profile.
- Control blood pressure.
- Stay physically active.
- Avoid smoking.
- Maintain healthy weight.
- Consider medications that protect the heart if recommended.
SECTION 5 — A SIMPLE PREVENTION CHECKLIST DAILY:
- Inspect feet.
- Walk or move frequently.
- Keep glucose patterns stable.
WEEKLY:
- Review meals and activity.
- Check for changes in symptoms.
YEARLY (minimum):
- Eye examination.
- Kidney tests.
- Foot examination.
- Cholesterol panel.
- Blood pressure review.
SECTION 6 — EARLY WARNING SIGNS YOU SHOULD NEVER IGNORE Eyes:
- Blurry vision
- Sudden spots or flashing lights
- Difficulty reading
Nerves:
- New tingling or numbness
- Burning pain at night
- Loss of sensation
Feet:
- Cuts not healing in 24–48 hours
- New swelling
- Red or black areas
- Warm spots
Heart:
- Chest discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained fatigue
SECTION 7 — THE REALITY: PREVENTION WORKS People often fear complications, but what research and real experience show is clear:
- Good daily habits dramatically reduce risk.
- Early detection prevents serious problems.
- Most blindness and foot amputations from diabetes are preventable.
- Even mild nerve symptoms can stabilise or improve.
KEY POINTS SUMMARISED
- Eye, nerve, and foot complications develop slowly and silently — prevention is stronger than treatment.
- Annual eye exams and daily foot checks are essential.
- Stable glucose, lower blood pressure, and healthy cholesterol protect all organs.
- Small daily habits (walking, moisturising, inspection, proper shoes) prevent major problems.
- Most complications of Type 2 Diabetes can be avoided with proactive care.
This chapter strengthens confidence that you can actively protect your long-term health and quality of life.