Diabetes is a long-term condition characterized by the way the body converts food into energy. The body is able to convert most of the ingested food into sugar which it puts into the bloodstream. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease in which blood glucose levels are elevated above normal limits. Without treatment, the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels, damage to body organs and complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, blindness, lower limb amputations occur.
Defining and explaining diabetes mellitus
Normally, when we eat food, it is broken down into glucose, which is absorbed into the blood. Over time, this glucose is used by cells to produce energy, a process regulated by the hormone insulin produced by the pancreas. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which this process does not work properly.
High blood sugar can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, blindness and, in complex cases, even amputation of a lower limb.
To control blood sugar, people with diabetes must constantly monitor their blood sugar, follow a healthy eating plan, exercise regularly, and in some cases take medication or use insulin. (1)
About diabetes symptoms and treatment we will tell you more in the following lines so that you go to the doctor at the first signs and receive appropriate help and care.
Types of diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the pancreatic cells responsible for producing insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. People with type 1 diabetes need to receive insulin regularly to keep their blood sugar within normal limits. This form of diabetes usually appears in childhood or adolescence and requires long-term treatment.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and is characterized by the body’s resistance to the action of insulin or insufficient insulin production. This type of diabetes is often associated with a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet and obesity. People with type 2 diabetes can be managed through lifestyle changes, including eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Sometimes, medication may also be needed to control blood sugar levels.
Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women who develop glucose intolerance. This is often temporary and usually resolves after birth. However, women who have had gestational diabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. Blood glucose monitoring during pregnancy and after delivery becomes a priority for those diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Special attention is also directed to the baby. (1), (2)
Symptoms of diabetes
Common symptoms include:
- excessive thirst;
- frequent urination;
- fatigue;
- unexplained weight loss;
- blurry vision.
These symptoms are the result of high blood sugar levels, which negatively affect the normal functioning of the body. It is essential to pay attention and monitor symptoms to identify and treat early stage diabetes.
Not all diabetics experience the typical symptoms. Some lesser-known signs may include frequent skin infections, slow wound healing, and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. These symptoms can be equally significant in the diagnosis of diabetes and should be considered.
Symptoms of diabetes in men:
- decreased sexual appetite;
- erectile dysfunction;
- reduced muscle strength.
Symptoms of diabetes in women:
- urinary tract infections;
- itchy skin. (1), (2), (3)
Treatment of diabetes
One of the most important aspects of diabetes treatment is the appropriate use of anti-diabetic medication. These can take many forms, from oral medications to injectable insulin, depending on the type of diabetes and individual needs.
Oral medications help lower blood sugar levels through various mechanisms, such as stimulating insulin secretion or improving the sensitivity of cells to insulin. Insulin is often needed for those with type 1 diabetes or advanced type 2 diabetes when oral medications are no longer sufficient.
In managing diabetes, adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption. A healthy diet for diabetics is also about portion control, avoiding foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, and increasing the intake of foods rich in fiber and nutrients. A dietitian can help with this by offering personalized advice.
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential for effective diabetes management. This allows trends to be identified and treatment to be adjusted when necessary. Various types of glucometers and continuous monitoring systems are available. (2. 3)
Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires specialized care. Controlling blood sugar levels effectively can be achieved by following certain conditions and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Treatment options and therapeutic goals may vary depending on the type of diabetes, age, gender, and other associated medical conditions. Before starting any treatment, it is recommended to consult a specialist doctor in order to establish a plan suitable to the needs.
Information sources:
2024-01-23 12:45:49
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