<\/p>\n
Photo by isens usa on Unsplash<\/p>\n
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot use it effectively.<\/p>\n
Main types of diabetes<\/p>\n
There are several main types of diabetes:<\/p>\n
Type 1;<\/p>\n
Type 2;<\/p>\n
gestational diabetes.<\/p>\n
Type 1 diabetes is insulin-dependent. The condition develops as a result of disturbances in the functioning of the pancreas: the immune system destroys the beta cells \u2013 this leads to insulin no longer entering the bloodstream and failing to transport glucose into the cells. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood and adolescence, but can also occur in adults.<\/p>\n
Type 2 diabetes is considered insulin-dependent. The pancreas produces sufficient insulin, but the body\u2019s cells lose sensitivity to it. This type of diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in adults, predominantly after the age of 40\u201345.<\/p>\n
Gestational diabetes occurs in women during pregnancy and is caused by a hormonal imbalance. The first symptoms usually appear in the second or third trimester and resolve on their own after the baby is born. Click on the link to find more detailed information about diabetes Signs.<\/p>\n
Note! In some cases, gestational diabetes can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes in women after the baby is born.<\/p>\n
Causes<\/p>\n
The causes of diabetes depend on its type. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic cells. The immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas, which produces insulin. This leads to a deficiency of insulin and an increase in blood sugar levels.<\/p>\n
Type 1 diabetes can develop as a result of:<\/p>\n
Genetic disorders \u2014 reduced cellular sensitivity to glucose, altered pancreatic function.<\/p>\n
Viral infections \u2014 Coxsackie, rubella and Epstein-Barr viruses, as well as retroviruses capable of penetrating pancreatic cells and causing their destruction.<\/p>\n
Chronic conditions affecting the pancreas \u2014 cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis and haemochromatosis.<\/p>\n
The main cause of type 2 diabetes lies in reduced tissue sensitivity to insulin. The pancreas continues to produce hormones in normal or elevated amounts, but the cells cease to respond to them. This prevents glucose from entering the cells; it remains in the bloodstream, leading to a persistent rise in blood sugar levels.<\/p>\n
Factors contributing to type 2 diabetes include:<\/p>\n
Excess body weight, particularly when fat accumulates in the abdominal area.<\/p>\n
Lack of physical activity, a diet dominated by high-calorie foods containing many fast-acting carbohydrates and saturated fats.<\/p>\n
Age over 45, particularly in the presence of unhealthy habits \u2013 smoking, alcohol abuse or chronic inflammation in the body.<\/p>\n
Gestational diabetes results from a combination of physiological changes during pregnancy and predisposing factors. A woman\u2019s body becomes less sensitive to insulin due to the production of hormones by the placenta to support the baby\u2019s growth. The pancreas needs to produce more insulin, but it fails to do so \u2013 glucose levels rise.<\/p>\n
Risk factors for developing gestational diabetes include genetic predisposition, being overweight during pregnancy, or insulin resistance prior to pregnancy \u2013 for example, in polycystic ovary syndrome. Women over the age of 35 are also at increased risk of metabolic disorders, as are those with multiple pregnancies, which place a greater strain on the body.<\/p>\n
Main symptoms<\/p>\n
The symptoms of diabetes depend on its type and the severity of the condition. The following signs are characteristic of type 1 diabetes:<\/p>\n
thirst and a dry mouth;<\/p>\n
frequent urination;<\/p>\n
increased appetite, with a feeling of hunger that sometimes persists even after eating;<\/p>\n
fatigue and weakness;<\/p>\n
persistent drowsiness;<\/p>\n
slow healing of wounds, even minor skin injuries (due to impaired blood circulation and reduced immune defence);<\/p>\n
dry skin;<\/p>\n
frequent urinary tract infections (glucose irritates the mucous membrane of the urinary tract, reducing its protective capabilities).<\/p>\n
Type 2 diabetes has its own set of symptoms:<\/p>\n
persistent thirst combined with a dry mouth;<\/p>\n
frequent urination;<\/p>\n
itching and burning of the skin;<\/p>\n
weight loss despite a balanced diet (the body cannot utilise glucose effectively, so it begins to burn fat reserves);<\/p>\n
frequent fungal infections.<\/p>\n
Signs of gestational diabetes include intense thirst, frequent urination, a dry mouth, fatigue, frequent urinary tract infections (thrush, cystitis), and an increased appetite combined with weight loss or insufficient weight gain. Another sign of the condition is blurred vision \u2014 glucose has a negative effect on the functioning of the eye\u2019s lens, causing temporary visual disturbances.<\/p>\n
Prevention and management<\/p>\n
Prevention and management of diabetes involve following lifestyle recommendations. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels. In some cases, medication or a rehabilitation programme may be prescribed.<\/p>\n
The main measures for preventing the development of diabetes are:<\/p>\n
A healthy diet. Including vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean protein in your diet, whilst limiting simple carbohydrates and added sugars. Consumption of processed foods and fast food should be kept to a minimum.<\/p>\n
Physical activity. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and improve insulin sensitivity. It is advisable to set aside at least 150 minutes a week for physical activity, including aerobic and strength training.<\/p>\n
Weight management. Being overweight is a major risk factor for developing diabetes. It is essential to monitor your diet and level of physical activity.<\/p>\n
Regular medical check-ups aimed at identifying a predisposition to diabetes at an early stage. This is essential for people who are overweight or have a family history of diabetes.<\/p>\n
Giving up harmful habits. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption significantly increase the risk of developing diabetes.<\/p>\n
Stress management and healthy sleep. Chronic stress combined with sleep deprivation can have a negative impact on blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.<\/p>\n
Managing a condition such as diabetes is based on monitoring blood sugar levels. It is essential to have a glucometer to hand \u2014 a compact device that allows you to measure glucose levels from a drop of blood taken from your finger. Measurements should be taken regularly: on an empty stomach, after meals, before going to bed, and if you feel unwell.<\/p>\n
You can also use a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system \u2014 a device comprising a sensor attached to the body and a receiver that transmits data online. Such devices allow you to monitor glucose levels around the clock and receive immediate alerts regarding critical drops or rises.<\/p>\n
Part of the diagnosis of diabetes involves a test for glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) \u2014 which shows the average glucose level over the past 2\u20133 months.<\/p>\n
To prevent and manage diabetes, medicines may be prescribed that increase tissue sensitivity to insulin, reduce glucose production by the liver, and improve its uptake by the muscles. These should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor; remember that medication does not replace a healthy diet and physical activity, but merely complements them. Medicines enhance the effects of lifestyle changes.<\/p>\n
\t #Living #diabetes #Daily #Business<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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