Diabetes - What is it

Diabetes—a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Let me break it down for you:

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. If left unmanaged, high blood sugar can lead to serious health complications.

Types of Diabetes

1. Type 1 Diabetes
• An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
• Usually diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood.
• People with Type 1 diabetes need lifelong insulin therapy.
2. Type 2 Diabetes
• The body becomes resistant to insulin, and the pancreas can’t produce enough to keep blood sugar levels normal.
• Commonly linked to obesity, poor diet, and lack of exercise.
• Can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes insulin.
3. Gestational Diabetes
• Occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes affect insulin function.
• Usually resolves after childbirth but increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
4. Prediabetes
• Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.
• A warning sign that diabetes could develop without lifestyle changes.

Symptoms of Diabetes

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss (Type 1)
• Slow wound healing
• Tingling or numbness in hands/feet (Type 2)

Causes & Risk Factors

• Type 1: Genetic predisposition, autoimmune response, environmental triggers (like viruses).
• Type 2: Obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, family history, aging.
• Gestational Diabetes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes

• Heart disease and stroke
• Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy)
• Eye problems (diabetic retinopathy, blindness)
• Nerve damage (neuropathy) leading to pain, numbness, or amputation
• Skin infections and slow wound healing

Treatment & Management

1. Type 1 Diabetes
• Requires insulin injections or insulin pumps.
• Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly.
• Healthy diet and exercise to maintain blood sugar balance.
2. Type 2 Diabetes
• Lifestyle changes: weight loss, healthy diet, regular physical activity.
• Oral medications (like Metformin) or insulin if necessary.
• Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels.
3. Gestational Diabetes
• Controlled with diet, exercise, and sometimes insulin.

Prevention (for Type 2 and Prediabetes)

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat a balanced diet (low sugar, high fiber, whole foods).
• Exercise regularly.
• Reduce stress and avoid smoking.