Diabetes Its Symptoms - What It Is, Causes, Treatment Types

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the majority of people worldwide. It is a disease that takes place when the body cannot produce or use insulin properly, leading to elevated sugar levels in the blood. There are different types of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Diabetes its Symptoms various health complications, including heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage. However, with proper management, people with diabetes can lead healthy lives.

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Diabetes Types

There are three main types:

1) Type 1 Diabetes

This type of diabetes occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the cells producing insulin in the pancreas. As a result, the body cannot produce insulin, leading to high sugar levels in the blood.

2) Type 2 Diabetes

This type of diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or cannot produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is more common than type 1 diabetes and is often linked to obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

3) Gestational Diabetes

This type of diabetes is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy (gestation). It affects how your cells use sugar (glucose).

4) Other Types of Diabetes

Other less common types of diabetes include monogenic diabetes, which is caused by genetic mutations, and cystic fibrosis-related diabetes.

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Diabetes Symptoms

Its symptoms can vary depending on the type of diabetes and how long a person has had the disease. Some common symptoms include:

1) Frequent Urination

High sugar levels in the blood can cause the kidneys to work harder, leading to more frequent urination.

2) Increased Thirst

Frequent urination can cause dehydration, leading to increased thirst.

3) Hunger

The body's inability to use insulin effectively can cause a lack of energy, leading to hunger.

4) Fatigue

High blood sugar levels can cause fatigue and weakness.

5) Blurred Vision

High sugar levels in the blood can cause fluid to be pulled from the tissues, including the eyes lens, leading to blurred vision.

6) Slow Healing of Wounds

High sugar levels in the blood can affect the ability of the body to heal, making wounds slow to heal.

7) Tingling In The Hands or Feet

High sugar levels in the blood can damage nerves, leading to numbness in the hands or feet.

8) Unexplained Weight Loss

People with type 1 diabetes may experience unexplained weight loss despite increased hunger.

9) Dry Skin or Skin Infections

High blood sugar levels can cause dry skin or skin infections.

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Causes of Diabetes

The exact causes of diabetes are not known, but there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including:

• Age
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Race/ethnicity (African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, and some Asian Americans are at higher risk)

Complications of Diabetes

If left untreated, diabetes can also lead to various health complications, including:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Kidney disease
• Eye damage and blindness
• Nerve damage
• Amputations
• Dental problems
• Skin conditions
• Erectile dysfunction

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Diagnosis of Diabetes

To diagnose diabetes, doctors may perform several tests, including :

1) Fasting Plasma Glucose Test

This test measures sugar levels in the blood after an overnight fast.

2) Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

It measures the sugar levels in the blood before and two hours after drinking a sweet drink. A result of 200 mg/dL or higher after two hours indicates diabetes.

3) A1C Test

It measures average sugar levels in the blood over the past three months.

Treatment of Diabetes

The treatment aims to keep sugar levels in the blood within a target range and prevent or manage complications.

1) Medications

There are several medications available to lower sugar levels in the blood, including insulin, oral medications, and injectable medications.

2) Diet and Exercise

A healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage sugar levels in the blood and reduce the risk of complications. A registered dietitian can help create a personalized meal plan, and a physical therapist can help develop an exercise plan.

3) Blood Sugar Monitoring

Regular blood sugar monitoring can help people with diabetes keep the sugar levels in the blood within a target range.

4) Insulin Pumps

Insulin pumps are small devices that deliver insulin continuously throughout the day.

5) Surgery

Some people with type 2 diabetes may benefit from weight loss surgery, which can help improve the sugar levels in the blood.

Prevention of Diabetes

While some risk factors for diabetes, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, there are steps people can take to reduce their risk of developing diabetes, including:

• Maintaining a normal weight
• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly