MODEL RELEASED. Diabetes clinic, blood pressure check. Sphygmomanometer (inflatable arm cuff) being used to measure blood pressure in a patient with diabetes. Damage to nerves and blood vessels is one of the side effects of diabetes, and this can lead to increased blood pressure. Diabetes mellitus affects glucose sugar metabolism. Blood sugar is not oxidised due to a lack of the pancreatic hormone insulin. Treatment is based on a strict diet and insulin injections to maintain the blood-sugar balance.