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Diabetes is a long-term, chronic metabolic disease marked by elevated blood sugar levels. The two main kinds are Type 1, in which the body is unable to generate insulin, and Type 2, in which the pancreas either produces insufficient amounts of insulin or cells develop resistance to it. If left untreated, any kind might result in major side effects such as heart disease, stroke, renal failure, and blindness. Increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss are some of the symptoms. Blood tests to measure blood sugar levels are part of the diagnosis. Treatment usually consists of medicine, such as insulin injections or oral hypoglycemic medications, lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, and routine blood sugar testing.
Maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and eating a balanced diet low in sugar and processed carbs are all part of prevention efforts. For those with diabetes, avoiding complications and enhancing quality of life are largely dependent on early identification and efficient care.
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There are different types of diabetes. The most prevalent types consist of:
Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which, for unclear reasons, your immune system targets and kills the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Approximately 10% of individuals with diabetes have Type 1. Though it can manifest at any age, children and young people are often the ones diagnosed with it.
Type 2 Diabetes: This condition is characterised by insufficient insulin production and/or an abnormal insulin cellular response (insulin resistance). This is the most common type. Children can be impacted, while adults are the ones who are typically affected.
Prediabetes: The period before type 2 diabetes is known as prediabetes. Though they are higher than usual, your blood glucose levels are not high enough to receive a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
Gestational Diabetes: It occurs during pregnancy. After pregnancy, gestational diabetes often disappears. On the other hand, if you have gestational diabetes, your chances of subsequently developing type 2 diabetes are increased.
Your diabetes severity will be determined by your blood sugar level. Some people may not experience symptoms, particularly if they have type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, or prediabetes. The symptoms of type 1 diabetes often appear more severely and rapidly. The following are a few signs of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes:
Diabetes has several causes, including:
Autoimmune Reaction: The pancreatic beta cells that produce insulin are unintentionally attacked and destroyed by the immune system. Although the precise cause is unknown, environmental and genetic factors, including viral infections, may be involved.
Insulin Resistance: Cells in the body become less responsive to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
Insufficient Insulin Production: The pancreas may not produce enough insulin to meet the body's needs.
Genetic Factors: A family history of diabetes increases risk.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, physical inactivity, poor diet, and smoking can contribute to the development of Type 2 diabetes.
Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 45, though it's increasingly seen in younger individuals due to rising obesity rates.
Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can make the body's insulin less effective. This can lead to increased blood sugar levels.
Risk Factors: Being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or being over the age of 25 can increase the risk.
Diabetes is diagnosed through several tests:
Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG): You must fast (i.e., consume nothing but water) for at least eight hours before the test. This test gives your physician access to your baseline blood sugar because food can significantly alter blood sugar levels.
Random Plasma Glucose Test: The term "random" refers to the fact that you can do this test whenever you choose, even if you haven't fasted.
Hemoglobin A1c Test (HbA1c): Your average blood glucose level for the previous two to three months is provided by this test, commonly known as the glycated haemoglobin test.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar levels after fasting and then two hours after consuming a glucose-rich beverage.
The main techniques to manage diabetes are as follows:
Blood sugar monitoring: An important way to assess how well your current treatment plan is working is to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels, or glucose levels. A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or regular tests with a finger stick and glucose meter are two ways to keep an eye on your levels. The ideal blood sugar range for you will be decided upon by you and your healthcare practitioner.
Diabetes pills: People with diabetes who still make some insulin, primarily those with Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, can control their blood sugar levels using oral diabetic medicines. Also, individuals with gestational diabetes may require oral medication, the most common being Metformin.
Insulin: Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require injectable synthetic insulin to maintain their health and manage their diabetes. For some people with type 2 diabetes, insulin is also necessary. Artificial insulin comes in a variety of forms. They all enter and leave your body at different rates and intervals. Insulin pens, insulin pumps, injectable insulin administered via syringe, and rapid-acting inhaled insulin are the four primary forms of insulin administration.
Diet: Since food has a significant influence on blood sugar levels, meal planning and selecting a balanced diet are essential components of managing diabetes. A significant portion of managing diabetes involves keeping track of the number of carbohydrates in the food and beverages you eat. How much insulin you require at meals depends on how many carbohydrates you consume. Maintaining a healthy weight and lowering your risk of heart disease may both be achieved with good eating habits.
Exercise: As physical activity both lowers insulin resistance and promotes insulin sensitivity, it is crucial for all diabetics to engage in regular exercise as part of their care.
High blood sugar levels have the potential to harm the body's organs over time. Damage to both big and small blood vessels (microvascular and macrovascular), which can result in heart attacks and strokes, as well as issues with the kidneys, eyes, mouth, feet, and nerves, are potential long-term complications.