What Is Diabetes? Many people would be surprised to learn that about one third of people with diabetes do not even know they have the disease because they are not experiencing diabetes symptoms. This fact highlights the need for greater public awareness about the disease and how it is caused, diagnosed, and treated. Fortunately, since diabetes is one of the most common diseases worldwide, much is known about how it can be prevented and treated. The challenge is to make sure the general public gets the message on the dangers and warning signs of this often preventable disease. What Is Diabetes? Diabetes is a disease characterized by the body’s inability to properly store and use glucose (a type of sugar). Because of this inability, glucose builds up in the diabetic’s blood, causing their blood sugar levels to rise to sometimes dangerous levels. Diabetes has two main types. Type 1 occurs when the body completely lacks the ability to produce insulin — a hormone that helps the body regulate and utilize glucose in the diet for energy. Type 1 diabetics are required to take insulin injections daily in order to live. This type of diabetes can occur in people of any age, but typically develops in children. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body is unable to make adequate insulin or properly use the insulin it does have. It normally happens in those over 40 who are overweight and have a family history of the disease. However, it is becoming increasingly common in younger people. Diabetes Symptoms Diabetics often have certain symptoms, including the following: • Increased thirst • Frequent urination • Increased hunger • Weight loss • Blurry vision • Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet • Irritability • Wounds that do not heal • Frequent skin, bladder, or gum infections • Extreme fatigue that is unexplained What Are the Causes of Diabetes? Anyone can develop diabetes, although those with a family history of the disease are more likely to get it. Some other risk factors are high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, and high blood pressure. As people grow older, their chances of developing diabetes become higher. Certain ethnic groups are also more likely to develop the disease. It is more common among African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Pacific Islanders. Diabetes Treatment Whether a person has Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, they must follow certain guidelines to manage their disease. They must adhere to a proper diet for diabetes. Diabetics must carefully monitor their physical activity, since it can help their bodies more effectively utilize insulin. All Type 1 diabetics, and many Type 2 diabetics, must take regular insulin injections. Some Type 2 diabetics are able to avoid medication by following a specific diet for diabetes and exercising. All diabetics should also see a diabetes specialist regularly. They should also regularly confer with their medical team, including a dietician who can help them develop a good meal plan that is individualized for their special needs. Since diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, diabetics should also have regular eye exams. This is to ensure that any vision problems are spotted early before they can become more serious.
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 21:22:52 +0000
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