A GUIDE TO DIABETES

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What Is Diabetes?


Diabetes is a chronic condition that causes abnormal blood sugar levels (Blood Glucose), These varying levels of blood sugars can cause damge to organs such as the Eyes, Kidneys, Heart Nerves and blood vessels over time.



DIAGNOSIS

Healthcare providers can diagnose Diabetes by testing your blood glucose levels. There are several types of diagnosis blood test including:



  1. Random blood glucose
  2. Fasting blood glucose test
  3. HBA1c

Unfortunately, most people with Diabetes are not diagnosed until symptoms reach a level that Hospital admission is required.



TYPES OF DIABETES

Type 1

While there are many types of Diabetes the most prominent are Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. So what is the difference? Type 1 Diabetes is lifelong condition that can start at any age but most often occurs in Childhood or Teenage years, Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease caused by the body's own immune system destroying the Beta cells that produce Insulin. Sadly there is currently No cure for Type 1 Diabetes, However with Technology moving at an incredible rate in recent years treatments are available that help to manage blood glucose levels much more efficiently than in previous years.



Watch for an explanation of what Type 1 Diabetes is and how it works

Insulin explained

Type 2

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body produces and uses insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your
body turn glucose (sugar) from food into energy. In people with type 2 diabetes, their bodies either don't produce enough insulin or don't use it effectively.



Key Characteristics of Type 2 Diabetes:
  1. Insulin Resistance:
    2. This means that your cells are less sensitive to insulin, making it harder for your body to use glucose for energy.
  2. Pancreas Overwork:
    3. Your pancreas may work harder to produce more insulin to compensate for the insulin resistance.
  3. High Blood Sugar Levels:
    4. Over time, the excess glucose in your blood can damage your organs and tissues.


Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes:
  1. Obesity:
    2. Excess weight can contribute to insulin resistance.
  2. Family History:
    3. If you have a family history of diabetes, you're at a higher risk.
  3. Age:
    4. The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age.
  4. Lifestyle Factors:
    5. Inactivity, unhealthy diet, and smoking can increase your risk.


Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes:
  1. Frequent urination
  2. Increased thirst
  3. Fatigue
  4. Blurred vision
  5. Slow-healing wounds
  6. Frequent infections
  7. Weight loss (in some cases)


Type 2 Diabetes explained

Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes:
  1. Lifestyle Changes:
    2. Healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management are often recommended as the first line of treatment.
  2. Medication:
    3. Oral medications or insulin injections may be prescribed to help manage blood sugar levels.


If you're concerned about your risk of type 2 diabetes or have any of the symptoms, it's important to see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment plan.