NCDs are not just "chronic diseases," but "silent threats that spread." Check these three main organs (eyes, feet, kidneys) before it's too late.

NCDs are not just "chronic diseases," but "silent threats that spread." Check these three main organs (eyes, feet, kidneys) before it's too late.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes and high blood pressure, don't just affect the disease itself. If blood sugar and gas levels are not well controlled, they can lead to serious complications in three major systems: eyes (retinal degeneration), feet (difficult-to-heal diabetic ulcers, risking amputation), and kidneys (chronic kidney failure). Early screening with modern technology and lifestyle changes are the most effective approaches to maintaining quality of life.

In-depth look at 3 key organs attacked by NCDs

Globally, NCDs account for 74% of all deaths. In Thailand, diabetic patients who cannot control their blood sugar levels have a high chance (up to 1 in 3) of developing kidney complications, and approximately 20-25% of those with symptoms have complications such as diabetic retinopathy. Statistics show that diabetic patients have a 15-25 times higher risk of foot amputation if foot wounds are not properly cared for.

1. Why do diabetic and hypertensive diseases damage the eyes?
When blood sugar levels remain high, it can cause inflammation and blockage of the capillaries in the retina. The body will create new, unhealthy blood vessels to replace the damaged ones, leading to bleeding and pulling on the retina, causing problems.

• Warning signs: Seeing floating black spots, rapid blurring of vision, distorted vision.

2. Why are foot ulcers a big problem for NCDs patients?
High blood sugar causes peripheral nerve damage, resulting in numbness in the feet, loss of pain sensation when wounds occur, and reduced blood flow to the extremities, making wounds difficult to heal and prone to infection.

• Warning signs: Feet numb as if wearing socks constantly, unusually dry and cracked skin on the feet, small wounds that don't heal within a week.

3. How do kidneys deteriorate from NCDs?
High blood pressure and diabetes cause the kidney filters to work harder, leading to inflammation and fibrosis. This results in the kidneys gradually losing their function of eliminating waste through urine.

• Warning signs: Excessive foamy urine, swelling in the shins or around the eyes, unexplained fatigue.

Screening: A way to prevent disease progression.

Advanced medical technology allows us to detect deterioration in all three major organs (eyes, kidneys, and kidneys) at a "pre-symptomatic" stage, enabling timely identification and prevention.

Digital Retina Photography: High-resolution digital imaging of the retina is used to detect abnormalities in blood vessels without the need for pupil dilation in some cases. The retina is the only part of the body where doctors can directly see blood vessels. Early abnormalities are often "asymptomatic," but late detection can lead to permanent vision loss. Annual tests allow doctors to compare images from each year to clearly see trends in changes.

Microalbuminuria Test: This test detects early protein leakage in urine, an accurate indicator of kidney deterioration. While general urine analysis often only detects protein when kidney function is significantly impaired, microalbuminuria is a more sensitive test that can detect even small amounts of protein leakage from the early stages, allowing for timely adjustments to medication and lifestyle to restore kidney health.

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): A tool to measure the strength of peripheral blood vessels in the legs to assess the risk of slow wound healing. This is helpful if you experience numbness in your feet. Or if you have a foot wound that heals slower than normal, an ABI test once a year can help confirm whether "there is still enough blood flow to the feet." If the ABI value is below the normal range, the doctor can plan to expand the blood vessels to prevent gangrene and future foot amputation.

• Treatment efficacy: Endo-spine surgery has a high success rate and significantly lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery.

Change your lifestyle to prevent complications.

1. Annual screening: Even if symptoms are normal, patients with NCDs should have their eyes and kidneys checked at least once a year.
2. Inspect your feet daily: Use a mirror to look at the soles of your feet every night before bed. If you find any redness or small sores, see a doctor immediately.
3. Follow a "healthy plate" diet: Emphasize 2 parts vegetables, 1 part rice, and 1 part lean meat. Avoid spicy (salty/sweet) foods to reduce the burden on the kidneys and blood sugar levels.
4. Appropriate exercise: Choose low-impact activities such as brisk walking or cycling to strengthen blood vessels.

Thonburi Thawiwatthana Hospital is committed to providing comprehensive healthcare for all patients, especially those with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). This isn't just about taking prescribed medication, but about preserving "quality of life,"

preventing lives of darkness, loss of self from dialysis, and loss of personality from foot amputation.Preventive care is the most worthwhile investment for yourself and your loved ones.