Diabetes and Health
ABOUT DIABETES
What Is Diabetes
Diabetes is a widespread health issue that impacts individuals across various age groups, with Type 2 diabetes being the most diagnosed variant. Effective management of diabetes requires an integrated approach that combines various treatment methods to sustain overall health and avert potential complications.
Diabetes occurs when blood sugar (glucose) levels rise excessively due to inadequate insulin production or the body's inability to utilize insulin effectively. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, facilitates the entry of glucose into cells, where it is used for energy. In cases where insulin is insufficient or does not function properly, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, resulting in hyperglycemia. This condition can affect individuals of any age and is typically chronic; however, it can be effectively managed through a combination of medication and lifestyle modifications.
Diabetes is a common condition, affecting around 537 million adults worldwide. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% to 95% of all cases. Experts estimate that this number will continue to rise in the coming years.
Type Of Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes, with the most common being:
Type 2 diabetes
The body doesn't produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to it, primarily affecting adults but also some children.
Prediabetes
A precursor to Type 2, where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet at diabetic levels.
Type 1 diabetes
An autoimmune disease where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells, usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
Gestational diabetes
Develops during pregnancy and increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes later.
Symptoms
Recognizing the warning signs and symptoms of diabetes and its complications is crucial for taking steps to improve your health. While the symptoms of diabetes are common, some people may experience them so mildly that they go unnoticed.
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
Frequent urination
Excessive thirst
Increased hunger
Extreme fatigue
Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands or feet (type 2)
Unexplained weight loss (type 1)
Slow-healing cuts or bruises
Blurred vision
Early detection and treatment of diabetes can help reduce the risk of complications.
Causes
Causes of diabetes include:
Insulin resistance
In Type 2 diabetes, cells in muscles, fat, and liver don’t respond properly to insulin, often due to factors like obesity, inactivity, diet, genetics, and certain medications.
Hormonal imbalances
Pregnancy hormones and conditions like acromegaly or Cushing syndrome can lead to insulin resistance, contributing to gestational and Type 2 diabetes
Autoimmune disease
In Type 1 diabetes and LADA, the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Pancreatic damage
Injury or illness affecting the pancreas can result in Type 3c diabetes.
Genetic mutations
Specific genetic changes cause MODY and neonatal diabetes.
Medications
Long-term use of certain drugs, like HIV/AIDS treatments and corticosteroids, can trigger Type 2 diabetes.
Complications
Diabetes can lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening complications, but you can reduce your risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle, recognizing warning signs, and regularly consulting your healthcare provider.
1
Heart disease
Increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
2
Kidney disease
This can lead to kidney failure if unmanaged.
3
Eye disease
May cause vision problems or blindness.
4
Nerve damage
This can lead to pain, tingling, or loss of sensation, particularly in the limbs.
5
Foot problems
Cuts or sores may heal poorly, sometimes leading to amputation.
6
Skin infections
People with diabetes are more prone to infections.
With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many diabetes-related complications can be prevented or delayed.