Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. It occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or can't effectively use the insulin it produces.
There are three main types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
Type 2 Diabetes: The most common type, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough. It is often associated with obesity and is more common in adults.
Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after childbirth. It increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Common symptoms include:
Increased thirst and urination
Extreme hunger
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing sores
Frequent infections
Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests such as:
Fasting Blood Sugar Test: Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast.
A1C Test: Provides an average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: Measures blood sugar before and after drinking a sugary liquid.
The exact cause of diabetes varies by type:
Type 1 Diabetes: Caused by an autoimmune reaction that destroys insulin-producing cells.
Type 2 Diabetes: Often caused by a combination of genetic factors and lifestyle choices such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity.
Gestational Diabetes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can impair insulin action.
Management involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication:
Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Exercise: Regular physical activity to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Medication: Insulin for type 1 diabetes and sometimes for type 2, along with other oral or injectable medications.
Monitoring: Regularly checking blood sugar levels.
Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented. However, type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed with healthy lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity.
If not well-managed, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including:
Cardiovascular disease
Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Kidney damage (nephropathy)
Eye damage (retinopathy)
Foot damage, potentially leading to amputations
Skin conditions
Hearing impairment
Living with diabetes requires ongoing self-management and vigilance. This includes monitoring blood sugar levels, making dietary adjustments, taking medications as prescribed, and staying active. It also involves regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor for complications.
Research is ongoing, and new treatments and technologies are continually being developed. Recent advancements include:
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps to better manage blood sugar levels.
New medications that improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications.
Research into potential cures, such as beta-cell transplantation and gene therapy.