Overview of Clinical Complications of Diabetes Heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney disease are some of the complications of diabetes. Eye Problems By getting an annual eye exam, you can help to prevent problems such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Foot Problems Protect and pamper your feet if you have diabetes. Daily attention helps head off minor problems before they become more serious. Kidney Problems Keeping your blood sugar under good control is an important step toward preventing kidney disease. Heart Problems Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death in people with diabetes. Find out what you can do to prevent them. Nerve Problems When you have diabetes, nerve problems may affect your hands, legs, and feet. Other Health Problems Although people with diabetes are at risk for certain health problems, many of them can be prevented or easily treated.