Macrovascular complications of diabetes are those that affect the large blood vessels. Diabetes damages the lining of blood vessels, causing them to narrow, which decreases the blood supply and eventually causes injury to the affected area.

• When blood vessels that supply the brain and heart are affected, a stroke or heart attack may occur.
• When the large blood vessels in the legs are affected, problems with blood circulation to the legs and feet may develop, causing changes in skin color, decreased sensation, and leg cramps (peripheral arterial disease).

Keeping blood sugar levels within a target blood sugar range may help prevent macrovascular problems.