Újszeged Medical Center

FOCUSING ON DIABETES COMPLICATIONS

Increasing attention is being paid to the detection and treatment of diabetes complications, as these significantly affect life expectancy. One reason for this focus is that, unfortunately, diabetes is often only diagnosed after complications arise, even though disturbances in glucose metabolism may have been present for decades. Another reason is that, thanks to advanced medication and insulin therapies (aimed at reducing blood sugar), diabetes can now be well-managed, with many patients receiving care for several decades, increasing the likelihood of late-stage complications.

According to current scientific knowledge, maintaining near-normal blood sugar levels (a normoglycemic state) prevents or at least delays microvascular (small blood vessel) complications and slows their progression. This means that even complications detected in the late stages of diabetes can worsen more slowly with proper metabolic management and targeted treatments. Preventing macrovascular (large blood vessel) complications, however, requires comprehensive management of the underlying causes.

Vision Problems

The most common eye issue among diabetics is vision impairment. Advanced retinopathy, which can lead to blindness, may already be present in patients with late-diagnosed type 2 diabetes. In many cases, a routine eye examination raises suspicion of diabetes. Therefore, an annual eye exam is crucial for early detection.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic nerve damage (neuropathy) accounts for one-third of all neuropathies and is often the first sign of diabetes. Typical symptoms include reduced or lost sensations of heat, pain, vibration, or touch. This can lead to unawareness of wounds or ulcers on the feet. Other symptoms include unsteady gait, numbness, or tingling in the feet. These symptoms are usually irreversible, making early detection of diabetes and neuropathy critical. At the Újszeged Diabetes Center, painless Neurometer testing can identify nerve damage in approximately 30 minutes by appointment. If abnormalities are confirmed, diabetologists and neurologists can recommend subsidized treatments to alleviate symptoms.

Kidney Function Disorders

Kidney disease (nephropathy) is a common complication, often affecting patients with high blood pressure. The earliest sign is protein in the urine, which can be quickly screened at the Újszeged Diabetes Center using a Minilabor device that examines 12 parameters. Annual testing is recommended to detect issues at an early stage and to slow progression through nephrology care if necessary.

Arterial Narrowing

Arterial narrowing occurs due to calcification and narrowing of the artery walls. Since these arteries supply the entire body, their damage can lead to circulatory problems in the limbs, as well as severe issues in the heart and brain. Risk factors include lipid metabolism disorders and uric acid metabolism disturbances, which can be screened at our center through lab tests. Annual ECG testing is also part of our comprehensive complication screening package. If abnormalities are found, our cardiologists can perform cardiac ultrasound during their specialist examinations.

Diabetic Foot

Diabetic foot complications, the most complex and widespread issues, arise from circulatory disorders and nerve damage. Neuropathic symptoms often develop at rest, usually at night, rather than during activity. Circulatory issues, on the other hand, cause calf pain during activity, which typically resolves with rest. The Újszeged Diabetes Center offers quick screening for these complications using Doppler testing, recommended annually for all diabetics. If abnormalities are detected, vascular surgeons can recommend subsidized treatments as needed.

Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Care

Managing complications often requires the collaboration of multiple medical specialties. At the Újszeged Diabetes Center, interdisciplinary care is unique, provided by specialists with outstanding expertise in both scientific research and clinical practice. Comprehensive annual screening tests can be completed in just a few hours by prior appointment.

COMPREHENSIVE COMPLICATION SCREENING PACKAGE

1. Laboratory Testing – Risk Screening

   • Blood lipids
   • Uric acid
   • HgbA1c
   • Body fat analysis
   • BMI
   • Blood pressure measurement

2. Urinalysis – Protein Screening

3. Neurometer Testing – Nerve Damage Screening

4. ECG – Coronary Artery Screening

5. Doppler Testing – Peripheral Arterial Narrowing Examination