Diabetes is a highly prevalent medical condition affecting millions worldwide. This chronic condition affects all age groups and can have several causes and risk factors associated with it. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose (blood sugar) level is too high. Without proper management, diabetes can cause serious health complications.
Dr. Kalpana Desai MD, offers extensive diabetes care through a personalized approach, incorporating all traditional and holistic treatment options.
Understanding diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by an increase in blood glucose levels. Glucose is the main source of energy produced by your body through a hormone called insulin.
During diabetes, your pancreas does not make enough insulin, or your body does not utilize insulin properly. Glucose stays in your body and does not reach the cells, thereby increasing the levels in your blood.
Diabetes increases your risk of damage to the eyes, nerves, and other internal organs. Though there is no cure for diabetes, it can be managed.
Types of diabetes
The types of diabetes are as follows:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Your body makes little to no insulin since the pancreatic cells that produce insulin are destroyed by your immune system.
- Young adults are often diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and need daily injections for survival.
- Type 2 diabetes
- Here the cells in your body do not use insulin properly.
- This type of diabetes can occur at any age and is most often associated with obesity.
- Gestational diabetes
- This type of diabetes usually develops during pregnancy but resolves after delivery.
Symptoms associated with diabetes
Diabetes may or may not exhibit any symptoms but it is important to consult your doctor if you think you are at risk.
Symptoms of diabetes include:
- Increased hunger and thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Dry mouth and itchy skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Numbness or pain in your legs or feet
- Burning sensation in your soles
- Poor wound healing
- Blurry or poor vision
- Frequent yeast infections
Diabetes diagnosis and treatment
Diabetes can be easily diagnosed through medical history and an in-depth physical examination. Your doctor can confirm the diagnosis through a blood glucose test.
Management includes the following:
- Blood sugar monitoring
- Oral diabetic medications
- Insulin injections
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight, and blood pressure
- Lowering your cholesterol levels
Takeaway
Diabetes though a prevalent medical condition, can be easily managed through a healthy lifestyle. Identifying the risk factors, and regular blood sugar monitoring also contribute to enhancing your quality of life.
