A CF patient whose pancreas does not work right will likely develop diabetes. That’s because the blockages in the pancreatic ducts and the damage to digestive enzymes make it harder for the pancreas to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the body’s metabolism, or how it makes energy for living.If you are diagnosed with diabetes, it is really important to keep in control of your blood-sugar by checking it frequently and and taking insulin. Uncontrolled diabetes could lead to lung, kidney, eye and other problems. Eye Disease
CF-related diabetes, or CFRD, damages the retina, a thin membrane over our eyes that helps us see. The result is a condition called diabetic retinopathy. CFRD will continue to damage the small blood vessels that supply the retinas, leading to a loss of vision in up to 15 percent of people with CFRD. Untreated, this can cause scarring, bleeding and detachment of the retina. Blood sugar levels must be controlled. You should see your ophthalmologist at least once a year. Neurologic Disease
CF related-diabetes can also damage our nervous system. Just as retinas can be damaged, blood supply to nerves that control sensation in our hands and feet is reduced, resulting in numbness in about 20 percent of people with CFDR. Strict blood sugar control is the best prevention. Kidney Disease
CFRD can also cause a type of kidney damage called diabetic nephropathy. You might get headaches, confusion, swelling of the legs, and less need to go to the bathroom. If not treated, this condition can cause kidney failure. Strict blood-sugar control is the best prevention, and your doctor will check your kidneys with blood and urine tests.  |
