Diabetes (blood sugar):
Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a long-term medical condition characterised by high blood glucose (sugar) levels. The body’s main source of energy is a type of sugar called glucose, which is obtained from the foods we eat. The hormone insulin, which is made by the pancreas, is used by the body to control glucose levels. to understand what is diabetes its important to understand its types.
There are numerous varieties of diabetes, but the two most prevalent are:
what is Diabetes Type 1:
This is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Because they are unable to produce insulin, people with type 1 diabetes must administer insulin intravenously or employ an insulin pump to regulate their blood sugar levels. It is impossible to prevent type 1 diabetes, which typically starts in childhood or early adulthood.
what is Diabetes Type 2:
The main characteristic of this type of diabetes, which is the most prevalent, is insulin resistance, in which the body’s cells do not react to insulin as effectively as they should. The pancreas initially responds by producing more insulin, but eventually, it might not be able to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range. Obesity, inactivity, and eating poorly are all lifestyle factors that are frequently linked to type 2 diabetes. Through dietary changes, exercise, and occasionally medication, it can be prevented or managed.
Gestational diabetes, which develops during pregnancy, monogenic diabetes, which is brought on by a single gene mutation, and secondary diabetes, which is brought on by other illnesses or medications, are some of the less frequent types of diabetes.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to various complications, including:
Cardiovascular problems (heart disease and stroke)
Kidney disease
Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Eye damage (retinopathy)
Foot problems (including amputations)
Dental issues
Skin conditions
Hearing impairment
Cognitive impairment
The key to managing diabetes and lowering the risk of complications is regular blood glucose monitoring, adherence to a diabetes management plan, a healthy lifestyle, and appropriate medical care. In order to maintain blood sugar levels within a healthy range, people with diabetes frequently collaborate closely with healthcare professionals, such as endocrinologists, dietitians, and diabetes educators, to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include dietary changes, medication, insulin therapy, and lifestyle changes.
