Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, either due to insufficient production of insulin or the body’s inability to effectively use the insulin it produces.
Types of Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This leads to a lack of insulin production, resulting in high blood sugar levels.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes, also called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), is the most common form of diabetes. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or fails to produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy in women who have never had diabetes before. It usually resolves after giving birth, but women who have had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Symptoms and Complications
Common symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, and blurred vision. If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to several complications, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye problems.
Treatment and Management
Diabetes management usually includes a combination of lifestyle changes, medication (e.g., insulin injections, oral medications), and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. A healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption are essential for managing diabetes effectively.
Prevention
While type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes may be prevented or delayed through adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive sugar and refined carbohydrate intake.