Diabetes is a long-term condition that influences blood glucose levels within the body. Additionally, it impacts various organs, including the lungs. In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Shehla Shaikh, a Consultant Endocrinologist at Saifee Hospital in Mumbai, stated, “Diabetes is known to diminish lung force vital capacity, lung compliance, peripheral airway function, and pulmonary diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide. This indicates a reduction in lung volume, thereby increasing the prevalence of restrictive conditions. Furthermore, the respiratory muscles in diabetic individuals may become impaired, making breath-holding increasingly strenuous as their lungs struggle to expand fully.”

What is diabetes neuropathy?

Dr. Shehla Shaikh elaborated, “Diabetic neuropathy is a prevalent complication that primarily affects the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the diameter of the airways and subsequently diminishes pulmonary function. It generally results in an enlargement of the airway caliber, leading to poor airflow and making it increasingly difficult for patients to expel lung irritants or pathogens.”

Diabetes makes lungs prone to infections

Diabetes also heightens the risk of pulmonary infections. Discussing this issue, the endocrinologist noted, “Elevated glucose levels in the airway surface liquid, coupled with impaired immune responses to infections, significantly raise the likelihood of pulmonary infections in diabetic individuals. The presence of increased oxidative stress and an ineffective mucociliary clearance system exacerbates the situation, allowing infections to progress to pneumonia more readily.”

The risk of tuberculosis:

The concern regarding tuberculosis risk is significant, particularly in individuals with diabetes. According to medical professionals, diabetic patients exhibit a higher incidence of tuberculosis, primarily due to their compromised immune systems, which often lead to additional complications, especially in pulmonary health. Furthermore, extended hospital stays can increase the likelihood of readmission, exacerbating the situation.

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