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:
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Age
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Obesity
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High blood pressure
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High cholesterol levels
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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:
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Heart disease and stroke
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Kidney disease
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Eye damage and blindness
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Nerve damage
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Amputations
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Dental problems
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Skin conditions
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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:
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Maintaining a normal weight
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Eating a healthy diet
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Exercising regularly
