Diabetes Complications in the Digestive System
Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a disorder in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. It often occurs in people with type 1 or
type 2 diabetes.
If food lingers too long in the stomach, it can cause problems like bacterial overgrowth from the fermentation of food. Also, the food can harden into solid masses called bezoars that may cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach obstructions. Bezoars can be dangerous if they block the passage of food into the small intestine.
Diabetic gastroparesis can make
diabetes worse by adding to the difficulty of controlling blood glucose. When food that has been delayed in the stomach finally enters the small intestine and is absorbed, blood glucose levels rise. Since diabetic gastroparesis makes stomach emptying unpredictable, a person's blood glucose levels can be erratic and difficult to control.
Diabetes Complications in the Teeth and Gums
Anyone can experience tooth and gum problems, but people with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing them. A sticky film full of germs (called
plaque) builds up on your teeth. High blood glucose helps germs (bacteria) grow. Then you can get red, sore, and swollen gums that bleed when you brush your teeth.
People with diabetes can have tooth and gum problems more often if their blood glucose stays high. High blood glucose can make tooth and gum problems worse. You can even lose your teeth.
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