All You Need to Know About Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that develops when your blood
glucose, commonly known as blood sugar, is abnormally high (hyperglycemia).
Blood glucose is your primary source of energy, and it is derived from the
foods you consume each day. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, aids
in the transport of glucose from meals into your cells, where it may be utilized
for energy. It is possible that your body does not produce enough insulin, or
that it does not utilize insulin properly. This causes glucose to remain in
your bloodstream and not reach your cells.
Having an excessive amount of glucose in your bloodstream
may lead to health issues over time. Despite the fact that diabetes has no
known cure, you may take measures to manage your condition and maintain your
health.
Diabetes is referred to as "a touch of sugar" or
"borderline diabetes" in certain circles. These phrases imply that
someone does not really have diabetes or that they have a less severe case of
the disease, although diabetes is a life-threatening disease in every instance.
What is the prevalence of diabetes?
Diabetes was diagnosed in 30.3 million individuals in the
United States in 2015, accounting for 9.4 percent of the population. More than
one in every four of them was completely unaware that they had the illness. One
in every four individuals over the age of 65 is affected with diabetes. Type 2
diabetes accounts for about 90-95 percent of occurrences in adulthood.
Diabetes Types
Type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes
are the three most common forms of diabetes (diabetes while pregnant).
Type 1 Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body's
insulin production.
Type 1 diabetes is believed to be caused by an autoimmune
response (in which the body mistakenly fights itself) that prevents your body
from producing insulin properly. Type 1 diabetes affects about 5-10 percent of
the population with diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is characterised by the rapid
development of symptoms. It is most often diagnosed in children, teenagers, and
young adults, although it may affect anybody. If you have type 1 diabetes, you
will need insulin injections on a daily basis in order to live. At this time,
no one knows how to prevent type 1 diabetes from occurring.
Kind 2 Diabetes is a type of diabetes that affects the
pancreas.
Type 2 diabetes is characterised by the inability of the
body to properly use insulin and maintain appropriate blood glucose levels.
Type 2 diabetes affects about 90-95 percent of all diabetics. It manifests
itself over a long period of time and is often diagnosed in adults (but more
and more in children, teens, and young adults). In the event that you have
diabetes but are not experiencing any symptoms, being tested for the disease is
critical. Type 2 diabetes may be avoided or delayed by adopting a healthy
lifestyle that includes reducing weight, consuming nutritious foods, and being
physically active on a regular basis.
Diabetes During Pregnancy
GDM occurs in pregnant women who have never had the disease
prior to becoming pregnant. Because of your pre-existing diabetes, your baby
may be at greater risk for developing health issues. After your baby is
delivered, gestational diabetes will generally go away, but it will raise your
chance of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Obesity in childhood and
adolescence is more probable in your kid, as is the development of type 2
diabetes later in life in your child.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes affects 88 million people in the United States,
or more than one in every three. Furthermore, more than 84 percent of them are
completely unaware that they have it. The blood sugar levels of people with
prediabetes are higher than usual, but they are not yet high enough to be
classified as type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes increases your chances of developing
type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke later in life. Fortunately, if you
have prediabetes, a lifestyle modification programme approved by the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may assist you in taking healthy
measures to reverse it.
Types of diabetes that are not listed here
Monogenic diabetes, which is a hereditary form of diabetes,
and cystic fibrosis-related diabetes are two of the less frequent forms of
diabetes.
What is the root cause of diabetes?
Type 1 (sometimes known as the first type)
Type 1 diabetes is characterised by the absence of insulin
production by the body. This is due to the fact that the immune system assaults
and kills the cells in the pancreas that are responsible for insulin
production. Doctors are baffled as to why this is happening. If one or both of
your parents or one of your siblings has type 1 diabetes, you are at a higher
risk of developing the disease.
Type 2 (also known as Type 2 diabetes)
When you eat, your body converts the majority of the nutrients
in your meal into glucose (a form of sugar). Insulin, a hormone, is responsible
for allowing glucose to enter all of the cells in your body. It is utilised to
generate electricity at that location. The pancreas is responsible for insulin
production. Type 2 diabetes is characterised by either insufficient insulin
production by the pancreas or insufficient insulin use by the body's cells
(called insulin resistance). As a result, glucose accumulates in your
bloodstream rather of being transported to your cells. A high level of glucose
in the bloodstream may cause severe health issues, including damage to the
blood vessels, nerves, heart, eyes, and kidneys, among other things.
Type 2 diabetes is associated with a number of risk factors,
including:
Weight. One of the most significant risk factors for type 2
diabetes is obesity, which is the most common form. Increased insulin
resistance is associated with increased body mass index (body mass index).
Consult with your doctor to determine whether or not you are overweight. A
balanced, low-fat diet combined with regular exercise may assist you in losing
weight gradually and maintaining your weight loss.
Age. In general, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
rises with age, particularly beyond the age of 45. Although you cannot alter
your age, you may take steps to decrease your risk by addressing other risk
factors.
The history of the family. Although you can't alter your
family history, it's still essential for you and your doctor to be aware of if
diabetes is a genetic trait in your family. If your mother, father, or a
sibling has diabetes, your chance of developing the disease is increased.
Inform your doctor if you or anybody in your family has been diagnosed with
diabetes.
Pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is a kind of diabetes that
occurs exclusively in women who are expecting children. In spite of the fact
that gestational diabetes disappears after pregnancy, about half of all
pregnant women develop type 2 diabetes within 15 years after giving birth to a
child. Women who give birth to infants that weigh 9 pounds or more are more
likely than other women to acquire type 2 diabetes later in life, even if they
do not have gestational diabetes at the time of delivery. Gender-specific
screening for gestational diabetes is recommended by the American Academy of
Family Physicians (AAFP) for pregnant women after the 24th week of pregnancy.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, there is insufficient
data to establish whether screening for gestational diabetes in pregnant women
before the 24th week of pregnancy is beneficial or harmful.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a medical condition that
affects the ovaries (PCOS). Essentially, this is a disease that happens when
there is an imbalance in a woman's hormone levels, which causes cysts to grow
on her ovaries. Women who have PCOS are at a higher risk of acquiring type 2
diabetes than women who do not have PCOS.
Tobacco and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. The use of
alcoholic beverages and the use of cigarettes may raise your chance of
developing type 2 diabetes. Put an end to your smoking habit as soon as
feasible. Drinking a little amount of alcohol with a meal is generally OK, but
you should limit yourself to one serving each day. Even less is preferable. A
serving of wine, beer, or hard liquor is equal to 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces
of beer, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor.
The likelihood of acquiring type 2 diabetes rises in direct
proportion to the number of risk factors present. If you have two or more risk
factors for type 2 diabetes, speak to your doctor about ways to postpone or
prevent the development of the disease.
Diabetes signs and symptoms
The symptoms of diabetes are brought on by a rise in blood
sugar.
Symptoms in general
Diabetes is characterised by a number of general symptoms,
which are as follows:
increased desire to eat
increased desire to drink
a reduction in body weight
urinating on a regular basis
eyesight that is hazy
severe exhaustion
sores that don't seem to heal
Men's signs and symptoms
In addition to the typical symptoms of diabetes, males who
have the disease may have reduced sex desire, erectile dysfunction (ED), and
decreased muscular strength, among other things.
Women's signs and symptoms
Women who have diabetes may also have symptoms such as
urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and dry, itchy skin, to name a few.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the
body's insulin production.
Type 1 diabetes may manifest itself in a variety of ways,
including the following:
a state of severe hunger
increased desire to drink
Unintentional weight loss may occur.
urinating on a regular basis
eyesight that is hazy
tiredness
It may also cause a shift in one's mood.
Kind 2 diabetes is a type of diabetes that affects the
pancreas
Type 2 diabetes may manifest itself in a variety of ways,
including:
increased desire to eat
increased desire to drink
increased frequency of urination
eyesight that is hazy
tiredness
wounds that take a long time to heal
It has also been linked to recurrent infections. This is due
to the fact that high glucose levels make it more difficult for the body to
recover.
Gestational diabetes is a kind of diabetes that occurs
during pregnancy.
The majority of pregnant women with gestational diabetes do
not experience any symptoms. Most commonly, the issue is discovered through a
regular blood sugar test or oral glucose tolerance test, which is generally
done between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy.
Occasionally, a woman with gestational diabetes may feel
increased thirst or urination in addition to the other symptoms.
What is the procedure for diagnosing diabetes?
If your doctor thinks that you are at risk for diabetes
after evaluating you, discussing your symptoms, and reviewing your medical
history, he or she may recommend that you get tested. Your doctor may order the
following tests to determine whether or not you have diabetes:
A fasting blood sugar test is performed. This test is
typically performed in the morning, after an 8-hour fasting period (not eating
or drinking anything except water for 8 hours before the test). For the blood
test, you will need to put a tiny needle into a vein in your arm in order to
take blood. The blood will be submitted to a laboratory for analysis. If your
blood sugar level is 126 milligrammes per deciliter (mg/dL) or above, your
doctor will most likely want to repeat the test to be sure you are not
diabetic. Diabetes is diagnosed when the blood sugar level is 126 milligrammes
per deciliter (mg/dL) or greater on two separate occasions. It is possible to
develop prediabetes if you have a blood sugar level of 100 mg per dL to 125 mg
per dL. A blood glucose level of less than 99 mg per deciliter of blood is
considered normal.
Oral glucose tolerance test is performed. You will be
required to consume a beverage comprising 75 grammes of glucose dissolved in
water throughout this test. This has a nice water flavour to it. Two hours
later, a doctor or nurse will take a blood sample to determine the level of
glucose in your blood. Diabetes is diagnosed when the blood glucose level is
200 mg/dL or above.
A random blood sugar test was performed. At any time of day,
this test may be used to determine the amount of glucose in your blood. It
makes no difference when you last consumed food. A blood glucose level of 200
mg/dL or above, when combined with the symptoms of diabetes, confirms the
presence of diabetes.
A1C blood test is performed. An individual's average blood
glucose levels during the preceding three months may be determined by doing
this blood glucose test. The results are expressed as a percentage of the
total. An A1C score of less than 5.7 percent is considered normal. It indicates
that your blood glucose has been higher than usual for a longer period of time.
A prediabetes test result of between 5.7 percent and 6.4 percent confirms the
presence of the condition. Diabetes is diagnosed when the result is 6.5 percent
or above.
AAFP advises that individuals between the ages of 40 and 70
years who are overweight or obese have their blood sugar levels checked for
type 2 diabetes as part of a comprehensive cardiac risk assessment. Behavioral
therapy to promote a balanced diet and physical exercise is recommended for
patients with abnormal blood glucose levels, and doctors are urged to provide
or refer them.
Is it possible to prevent or avoid diabetes?
Consult your doctor if you have any risk factors for
developing diabetes. You may not be able to alter everything, but you can make
adjustments that will substantially reduce your risk.
Exercise and weight management are important. Physical
activity and keeping a healthy weight may help to lower your chance of
developing diabetes. Any level of exercise is preferable than none at all. Try
to get 30 to 60 minutes of exercise in on most days of the week. If you are
considering beginning an exercise regimen, consult with your doctor first.
Diet. A high-fat, high-calorie, and high-cholesterol diet
increases your chances of developing diabetes. Obesity (another risk factor for
diabetes) and other health issues may result from a sedentary lifestyle and bad
nutrition. Diets that are rich in fibre and low in fat, cholesterol, sodium,
and sugar are considered to be healthful. Also, remember to keep an eye on your
portion control. The amount of food you consume is just as essential as the
kind of food you consume.
Factors that increase the risk of diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that may be caused by a number of
causes.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the
body's insulin production.
If you have type 1 diabetes as a child or adolescent, if you
have a parent or sibling who has the illness, or if you have specific genes
that are related to the disease, you have a higher risk of developing the
condition.
Kind 2 diabetes is a type of diabetes that affects the
pancreas.
If you do any of the following, you increase your chance of
developing type 2 diabetes:
they have a lot of extra weight
are above the age of 45
have a parent or sibling who is suffering from the illness
don't engage in any physical activity
Having been diagnosed with gestational diabetes
have diabetes or pre-diabetes
suffer from high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or
elevated triglycerides
having ancestors that are African American, Hispanic or Latino
American, Alaska Native, Pacific Islander, American Indian, or Asian American
Gestational diabetes is a kind of diabetes that occurs
during pregnancy.
If you do any of the following, your chance of developing
gestational diabetes increases:
they have a lot of extra weight
are above the age of 25
during a previous pregnancy, I was diagnosed with
gestational diabetes
having given birth to a child that weighs more than 9 lbs.
having a history of type 2 diabetes in one's family
suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or
diabetes-related problems
High blood sugar has a detrimental effect on organs and
tissues throughout the body. You are more likely to have problems if your blood
sugar is high and you have been living with it for a long time.
Complications
heart disease, heart attack, and stroke are all conditions
that affect the cardiovascular system.
neuropathy
nephropathy
retinopathy and vision impairment
a problem with one's hearing
Infections and sores that do not heal are examples of foot
injury.
Bacterial and fungal infections of the skin are examples of
skin disorders.
depression
dementia
Gestational diabetes is a kind of diabetes that occurs
during pregnancy.
The uncontrolled progression of gestational diabetes may
cause complications for both the mother and the child. The following are
examples of complications that may harm the baby:
birth before the due date
a birth weight that was greater than usual
Later in age, there is an increased chance of developing
type 2 diabetes.
low levels of glucose in the blood
jaundice
stillbirth
Complications such as elevated blood pressure (preeclampsia)
or type 2 diabetes may occur in the mother during pregnancy. She may also need
a caesarean section, which is referred known as a C-section informally.
The mother's chance of developing gestational diabetes in
subsequent pregnancies rises as well.
Management of Diabetes
Controlling your blood sugar level is the single most
essential thing you can do for your health. This may be accomplished by good
diet, regular exercise, keeping a healthy weight, and, if necessary, the use of
oral medications or insulin.
Diet. You should consume enough of complex carbohydrates
(such as whole grains), fruits, and vegetables as part of your diet. It is
essential to have at least three meals each day and to never miss a meal. Every
day, I eat at about the same time. This aids in keeping your insulin or
medication levels as well as your blood sugar levels stable. Avoid consuming
empty calories from meals rich in sugar and fat, as well as from alcohol.
Exercise. Exercising aids in the use of insulin and the
reduction of blood glucose levels. It also aids in weight management, provides
you with more energy, and is beneficial to your general health. Exercise is
also beneficial to your heart, your cholesterol levels, your blood pressure,
and your overall weight management plan. All of these variables may increase or
decrease your chance of having a heart attack or having a stroke. Make an
appointment with your doctor to discuss beginning an exercise regimen.
Maintain a healthy weight by exercising regularly. Getting
rid of extra weight and keeping a healthy body weight would be beneficial to
you on two levels. First and foremost, it aids in the proper functioning of insulin
in your body. Second, it will help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your
chance of developing heart problems.
Take your medication as prescribed. It is possible that your
doctor may prescribe medication or insulin if your diabetes cannot be managed
with diet, exercise, and weight management. The majority of individuals with
type 2 diabetes begin with an oral medication (taken by mouth). Oral
medications have the potential to increase insulin production in the body. They
also assist your body in making better use of the insulin that it produces.
Insulin injections, insulin pens, and insulin pumps are all options for certain
individuals who need to supplement their insulin levels. Always follow your
doctor's instructions while using medications. Oral medication does not always
effective in all cases. The treatment of type 1 diabetes with this medication
is ineffective. Individuals with type 1 diabetes, as well as some people with
type 2 diabetes, need insulin treatment on a regular basis. If you need
insulin, you will be required to administer it to yourself (either with a
syringe or with an insulin pen). Your doctor will inform you the kind of
medication to take and why you should take it.
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/diabetes.html
https://familydoctor.org/condition/diabetes/?adfree=true
https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/diabetes.html
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes
Just fall in Love with Your Explanation way. I will come back soon to read about Diabetes Treatments , Symptoms and Causes. Explore some More information on diabetes and also Explore some Best Exercises for diabetes.
ReplyDelete