Things You Should Know About Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a lifelong disease distinguished by high levels of sugar in the bloodstream. It has two types, namely, type 1 diabetes results from the loss of insulin-generating cells in the pancreas, which in turn results in insulin deficiency, and type 2 diabetes that is brought about by insulin resistance or cellular inability to take up insulin. The number of cases of diabetes is rising rapidly globally, but most notably in developed countries. As of 2010, roughly 285 million people around the globe have diabetes, with Type 2 DM making up 90 % of these cases. It is predicted that by 2030, this number will grow by a 100 percent.
What causes diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes
This kind of diabetes is partially inherited, and it often is triggered after an infection. In type 1 DM, the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells, leaving the body devoid of or with only little insulin. This form of diabetes is not brought about by lifestyle, and it can appear earlier or in life, in many instances, during childhood.
Type 2 diabetes
This form of diabetes is a lifestyle disorder, and it is strongly associated with obesity, however, not all type 2 DM patients are obese. Genetics can also contribute to type 2 diabetes, and environmental variables activates this predisposition. Certain diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome for instance, and some drugs, such as glucocorticoids, can increase the risk for diabetes.
Diabetes symptoms
Both kinds of diabetes can demonstrate similar signs and symptoms. Diabetes patients often experience excessive thirst and subsequently frequent need to pee, intense food cravings and increased susceptibility to fatigue because of cellular starvation, and frequent infections. Unexplained weight loss may also be encountered, but not in all cases. Badly managed diabetes can also cause microvascular changes, which can cause blurred vision, longer than usual wound healing time especially in the lower extremities, and reduced sensation in the hands and feet, which increases their likelihood of being wounded without them knowing.
Can it be treated?
Currently, there are no proven cures yet for diabetes, but it can be managed effectively and complications can be prevented through drugs, like insulin and oral hypoglycemics, and changes in lifestyle, which include following a controlled diet and raising physical activity. Keeping track of blood sugar and periodic check-ups with a health care provider are also essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medical management as well ensure the early detection of complications. For diabetes that is hard to control, a pancreas transplant is also an alternative, but only employed as a final resort. It is also crucial that you give up smoking and restrict alcohol consumption because these can hasten the development of complications.
What causes diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes
This kind of diabetes is partially inherited, and it often is triggered after an infection. In type 1 DM, the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells, leaving the body devoid of or with only little insulin. This form of diabetes is not brought about by lifestyle, and it can appear earlier or in life, in many instances, during childhood.
Type 2 diabetes
This form of diabetes is a lifestyle disorder, and it is strongly associated with obesity, however, not all type 2 DM patients are obese. Genetics can also contribute to type 2 diabetes, and environmental variables activates this predisposition. Certain diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome for instance, and some drugs, such as glucocorticoids, can increase the risk for diabetes.
Diabetes symptoms
Both kinds of diabetes can demonstrate similar signs and symptoms. Diabetes patients often experience excessive thirst and subsequently frequent need to pee, intense food cravings and increased susceptibility to fatigue because of cellular starvation, and frequent infections. Unexplained weight loss may also be encountered, but not in all cases. Badly managed diabetes can also cause microvascular changes, which can cause blurred vision, longer than usual wound healing time especially in the lower extremities, and reduced sensation in the hands and feet, which increases their likelihood of being wounded without them knowing.
Can it be treated?
Currently, there are no proven cures yet for diabetes, but it can be managed effectively and complications can be prevented through drugs, like insulin and oral hypoglycemics, and changes in lifestyle, which include following a controlled diet and raising physical activity. Keeping track of blood sugar and periodic check-ups with a health care provider are also essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medical management as well ensure the early detection of complications. For diabetes that is hard to control, a pancreas transplant is also an alternative, but only employed as a final resort. It is also crucial that you give up smoking and restrict alcohol consumption because these can hasten the development of complications.
About the Author:
The incidence of diabetes is rapidly growing across the globe, and the first step to slowing down this trend is by educating ourselves about this disease. To know more about Treatment of Diabetes, follow this link.
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