Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use insulin properly

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. It occurs when your blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. Glucose is the main source of energy for the cells in your body, and insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps glucose get into your cells to be used for energy.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes:

  • An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
  • Usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
  • Requires daily insulin injections.

Type 2 Diabetes:

  • The most common type, where the body doesn’t use insulin properly.
  • Often develops in adults over 45, but can occur at any age.
  • Managed through lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin.

Gestational Diabetes:

  • Occurs during pregnancy and usually goes away after childbirth.
  • Increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Prediabetes:

  • Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.
  • Lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms

  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Unexplained weight loss (Type 1)
  • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet (Type 2).

Causes

  • Genetic Factors: Family history can increase the risk.
  • Environmental Factors: Lifestyle choices such as diet and physical activity.
  • Autoimmune Factors: In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells.

Management and Treatment

  • Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps manage blood sugar levels.
  • Monitoring Blood Sugar: Regular checks to ensure levels are within the target range.
  • Medications: Insulin for type 1 diabetes; oral medications and/or insulin for type 2 diabetes.
  • Education and Support: Ongoing education about diabetes management and support from healthcare professionals.

Complications

  • Heart Disease: Increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
  • Nerve Damage: Can lead to pain, tingling, and loss of sensation.
  • Kidney Damage: May lead to kidney failure.
  • Eye Damage: Increases the risk of blindness.
  • Foot Problems: Poor circulation and nerve damage can lead to serious foot issues.

Prevention

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Regular Check-ups: Early detection and management of prediabetes.
  • Education: Understanding the risk factors and symptoms.