Diabetes occurs when there is too much glucose in the blood. Over time, high blood-glucose levels can damage the body’s organs.

Possible long-term effects include damage to both the large and small blood vessels, which can lead to heart attack, stroke, kidney issues, eye problems, and nerve damage or neuropathy to the lower limbs.

Sani (not his real name), 63, experienced severe pain in his legs. His toes were blue and his feet always felt cold, so much so that he could not sleep at night.

It hurt so badly that he could hardly walk. The only way he could stand was to put pressure on his heels.

He was referred to a vascular surgeon who diagnosed him with peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is caused by cholesterol plaque build-up or blockages in the legs. Like blocked arteries in the heart, it can lead to complications such as ulcers and infections.

Sani agreed to an angiogram and for the surgeon to perform an interventional procedure, placing stents in both legs to open the blockages. He was told that both are minimally invasive procedures to widen the blood vessels and prevent them from being blocked again.

Within a few days, his toes began to change colour. Now, he has less pain and has more sensation and strength in his legs.

Sani knew he had a family history of diabetes, especially since his younger sister passed away from a heart condition. He also knew that being a cigarette smoker put him at an increased risk. But he never thought his leg pain was associated with diabetes and smoking.

PAD commonly affects those with diabetes, especially when they have poor control over the condition. According to the Malaysian Diabetes Association, about one in three people with diabetes above age 50 has the potential to suffer from PAD.

Others at risk include smokers, seniors, those with high cholesterol, those who are overweight, and those with a sedentary lifestyle.

Though PAD is a relatively common and treatable disease, it is largely unknown and its symptoms are often unrecognised or attributed to old age. These include:

•  open ulcers or wounds on the bottom of the feet that do not heal
•  pain in the feet or legs that goes away with walking
•  severe cramping in the calf while exercising
•  discoloration of the legs and/or feet
•  numbness or coldness in the legs and/or feet
•  pale, shiny skin.

Sani has 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren and says his quality of life has improved greatly since the procedure. He has committed to quitting smoking by using a nicotine patch and chewing gum.

He can do most of his normal activities now and walks with much more ease. Best of all, he is able to keep up with his grandkids.

People can reduce their risk of the long-term effects of diabetes by keeping their blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels within the recommended ranges.

Also, maintaining a healthy weight, eating healthily, exercising regularly and not smoking will help reduce the risk. Regular checkups and screenings are important to detect problems early.

TELEME Healing Life Stories is a collection of inspirational stories of how ordinary people triumph over their health conditions and recover to lead a healthier life after that. Feel free to email [email protected] to share your story.

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