Macrovascular and Microvascular Complication, Diabetes Mellitus - Assignment Example

The complication may be macrovascular or microvascular. One of the most likely microvascular complications that they are likely to develop is retinopathy commonly known as retinopathy. The complication can be easily identified in individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.  One can use several features in easy identification of the condition. One of the common characteristics that can be easily used in the identification of the complication is the presence of small hemorrhages in the central part of the retina (Fowler, 2008).  Hemorrhages in this section of the eye appear as dots. The other characteristic that can be easily used in the identification of the condition in these individuals is the presence of hard exudates in the skin.  The other common attributes are the presence of small vascular dilatations that occur in the retina commonly known as microaneurysms (Fowler, 2008).

The location of the small vascular dilations can help indirect identification of the complication as they are usually the first to develop. Moreover, an individual is most likely to have retinal edema that indicates microvascular leakage. Hence, the individual retina is most likely to be greyish in colour. The severity can be easily identified by noting individual visual capability.  The management of the disease is crucial in preventing the development of complications. One of the key things in preventing complications is by ensuring the three take part in dietary changes (Lewis, Dirksen, Heitkemper & Bucher, 2013). Change of diet will involve a reduction of carbohydrate intake and at the same time increase the fiber intake (Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet. (2007). Another way of reducing complications is ensuring the affected individuals take part in eye screening. Eyes should be regularly checked by ophthalmologists especially on a yearly basis (Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet. (2007).

On the other hand, Nick, Marty, and Sam are likely to develop microvascular complications. One of the common types of this complication is peripheral artery disease. The complication is characterized by occlusion of the lower arteries (Cade, 2008). In assessment, individuals will mostly complain of claudication and pain especially in strenuous conditions.  The other characteristic likely to be noted is the failure of individuals to be able to carry out routine activities.  The other common characteristic that is likely to exhibit during the assessment is ulceration in the foot. Moreover, an individual’s body is likely to show hyperglycemia that may easily indicate the presence of PAD (Cade, 2008).

The individuals should also be checked on the presence of hypertension, waist to hip ratio and serum fibrinogen levels. The complication can be easily managed through various initiatives. First, blood pressure should regularly be monitored. For example, it can be done twice a year. Secondly, there should be screening for fasting blood lipids and carried out after diagnosis of diabetes mellitus in individuals (Donaghue et al., 2009). The other important part of the management is in ensuring there is metabolic control and changes in diet taken by individuals. Individuals should also be encouraged not to take part in activities that can increase the risk such as smoking (Lewis et al., 2013).

In conclusion, it is clear that diabetes mellitus can lead to various complications in the body. The complication can affect individuals involved such as Nick, Marty, and Sam. Therefore, assessment and management of the condition in these individuals are crucial in ensuring that they retain a comfortable life.