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Best Diabetes centre in Dhakuria

Diabetes

Best Diabetes Hospital in Dhakuria

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition characterised by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. This occurs either because the body cannot produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or because the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin.

Diabetes mostly manifests as one of three types:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes need ongoing Insulin Therapy to control their blood sugar levels effectively.

  • Type 2 Diabetes: This is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for the majority of cases. It develops in adulthood and is associated with insulin resistance, where the body's cells become resistant to the effects of Insulin. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed with Lifestyle Modifications, Oral Medications, and/or Insulin Therapy.

  • Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and affects a small percentage of pregnant women. It usually resolves after childbirth but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

 

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FAQ's

Diabetes manifests with various symptoms, although some individuals may experience none, particularly in the early stages. The common symptoms include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow wound healing
  • Recurrent infections

Causes of diabetes include:

  • Insulin Resistance: Type 2 diabetes often stems from insulin resistance, where cells in muscles, fat, and the liver fail to respond adequately to insulin. Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, diet, hormonal imbalances, genetics, and certain medications are among the factors that contribute to insulin resistance.

  • Autoimmune Response: Type 1 diabetes and LADA result from an autoimmune attack on insulin-producing cells in the pancreas by the immune system.

  • Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal changes during pregnancy induce insulin resistance, leading to gestational diabetes. Conditions like acromegaly and Cushing syndrome can also trigger type 2 diabetes through hormonal disruptions.

  • Pancreatic Damage: Damage to the pancreas due to illness, surgery, or injury can impair insulin production.

  • Genetic Factors: Specific genetic mutations contribute to conditions like MODY and neonatal diabetes.

  • Medications: Prolonged use of certain medications, such as those for HIV/AIDS and corticosteroids, may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Diagnosing diabetes involves several diagnostic tests to accurately assess blood sugar levels and overall glucose metabolism. These tests include:

  • Fasting Blood Sugar Test (FBS): This test measures blood sugar levels after fasting for at least eight hours. A blood sample is taken, and elevated glucose levels may indicate diabetes if they are consistently above normal thresholds.

  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): In this test, fasting blood sugar levels are measured first, followed by consuming a sugary drink. Blood sugar levels are then tested periodically over the next few hours to evaluate how the body processes glucose. Elevated blood sugar levels at various intervals may indicate impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes.

  • Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test: This blood test provides an average of blood sugar levels over the past two to three months by measuring the percentage of glycated haemoglobin in the blood. Higher HbA1c levels indicate poorer blood sugar control and may suggest diabetes or prediabetes.

  • Random Blood Sugar Test: A Random Blood Sugar Test measures blood glucose levels at any time of the day, regardless of when the last meal was consumed.

  • Glycated Albumin Test: Similar to the HbA1c test, this test measures the percentage of glycated albumin in the blood, providing an indicator of average blood sugar levels over the past few weeks.

The management of diabetes involves a multifaceted approach tailored to individual needs. Treatment options may include:

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Adopt a balanced diet and consistent exercise regimen to effectively control blood sugar levels.

  • Oral Medications: Prescribed for type 2 diabetes to lower blood sugar levels and enhance insulin sensitivity.

  • Insulin Therapy: Essential for type 1 diabetes and may be required for type 2 diabetes if other measures fail to control blood sugar.

  • Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): Real-time monitoring of blood sugar levels for better management and insulin adjustment.

  • Injectable Medications: GLP-1 receptor agonists or SGLT2 inhibitors can assist in lowering blood sugar levels.

  • Bariatric Surgery: Considered for severe obesity and type 2 diabetes when other treatments prove insufficient.

  • Regular Monitoring: Routine check-ups and blood sugar monitoring are essential for the early detection of complications.

Managing blood sugar levels involves maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, monitoring blood sugar levels regularly, taking medications as prescribed, and making healthy lifestyle choices to prevent complications associated with diabetes.

Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can lead to serious complications over time, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), vision problems (retinopathy), foot problems, skin conditions, and dental problems.

While type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding tobacco use.

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