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Diabetes
Overview:
Diabetes mellitus results from a defect in insulin secretion by the pancreas, a gland situated behind the stomach, and/or defect in insulin action. This causes a disorder of protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. When a person has uncontrolled diabetes there is an inability to transport glucose into fat and muscle cells. This results in starvation of these cells which leads to an increase in fat and protein breakdown.
Signs and Symptoms:
Diabetes mellitus is characterised by elevated blood glucose levels. General early symptoms include unquenchable thirst, fatigue, blurred vision, passing abnormal amounts of urine and skin problems.
Diabetics have an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease and loss of nerve function.
Causes and Organs Affected:
There are two types of diabetes mellitus:
Insulin dependent diabetes (IDDM) - Type 1
Is classified as an Autoimmune Disease which develops more rapidly than Type 2 Diabetes and is more severe due to lack of insulin production. This form has a stronger genetic background and generally manifests during childhood or in people under the age of 30. Body build is usually lean. It is characterised by destruction of the insulin-secreting beta cells in the pancreas. Daily doses of insulin are required with Type 1 Diabetes.
Non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM) -Type 2
In Type 2 diabetes, the cells of the body that rely on insulin are resistant to its actions. Body build is usually overweight and occurs in people older than 30 years of age. Persons with Type 2 diabetes may be prescribed medication as a form of treatment, however, mild cases may be controlled by dietary and lifestyle changes under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Risk Factor:
Risk factors for diabetes depend on the type of diabetes.
Risk factors for type 1 diabetes
Although the exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, family history may play a role. Your risk of developing type 1 diabetes increases if you have a parent or sibling who has type 1 diabetes. Other factors have been proposed, as well, such as exposure to a viral illness.
Risk factors for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
Researchers don't fully understand why some people develop prediabetes and type 2 diabetes and others don't. It's clear that certain factors increase the risk, however, including: Weight, Inactivity, Family history, Race, Age, Gestational diabetes and Polycystic ovary syndrome.
Treatment:
Depending on what type of diabetes you have, blood sugar monitoring, insulin and oral medications may play a role in your treatment. A pancreas transplant may be an option for select people.
But no matter what type of diabetes you have, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising and keeping a healthy weight are all keys to managing your diabetes.
Treatments for all types of diabetes
An important part of managing all types of diabetes includes maintaining a healthy weight through a healthy diet and exercise plan.
Other Information:
Diabetes is a serious disease. Following your diabetes treatment plan takes round-the-clock commitment. But your efforts are worthwhile. Careful management of diabetes can reduce your risk of serious — even life-threatening — complications.
Lifestyle for all diabetes
No matter what type of diabetes you have:
* Make a commitment to managing your diabetes. Learn all you can about diabetes. Make healthy eating and physical activity part of your daily routine. Establish a relationship with a diabetes educator, and ask your diabetes treatment team for help when you need it.
* Take care of your teeth. Diabetes may leave you prone to gum infections. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. And if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, schedule dental exams at least twice a year. Consult your dentist right away if your gums bleed or look red or swollen.