Diabetes is a chronic and life threatening medical condition that affects an estimated 425 million people worldwide. It is generally caused by the pancreas not producing enough insulin or not responding to the insulin it does produce, preventing sugar in the bloodstream from entering the cells and being used as energy. Sugar builds up in the bloodstream and, if left untreated, can have serious consequences on many aspects of a patient's health.
There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed in adolescence and is caused when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Patients with type 1 diabetes must watch their blood sugar levels and inject insulin to ensure that their sugar levels stay at a healthy level. Type 2 diabetes usually occurs in adulthood and occurs when the body becomes resistant to the insulin it produces. This type of diabetes is usually treated with diet and lifestyle changes along with regular insulin injections.
common symptoms:
The most common symptoms of diabetes are frequent urination, intense thirst, fatigue and increased appetite. While these symptoms may state other conditions, if left unchecked, diabetes can cause serious health complications including heart, eye, tooth and nerve damage, stroke and kidney failure. Early diagnosis can help avoid these complications, which is why it's important to check your blood glucose levels if you're at risk of diabetes.
Patients with diabetes should watch their blood sugar levels and must follow a strict diet to manage the condition. Dietary management of diabetes often involves reducing intake of sugars and starches, increasing intake of low GI fruits and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water. Patients with type 1 diabetes must also watch their blood glucose levels and inject insulin when necessary. Exercise is also important for diabetics because it helps manage glucose levels and reduces the risk of long term complications.
Diabetes is an incurable condition, but it can be managed with proper treatment. Patients with diabetes must take responsibility for their health and make positive life choices to protect themselves from the long-term complications of the condition. In order for a diabetic to be able to lead an active and healthy life, regular checkups, medication administration and dietary work are necessary. Although diabetes can be an intimidating diagnosis, the right lifestyle choices and treatment can help diabetics lead a healthy lifestyle.
