Diabetes mellitus encompasses a range of conditions that impact the body’s management of blood sugar (glucose). Glucose serves as a vital energy source for cells composing muscles and tissues, as well as being the primary fuel for the brain
Types of Diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: Typically develops in childhood or adolescence when the immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to insulin deficiency.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin. It’s often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity.
- Prediabetes: Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet at the range. Without intervention, prediabetes can progress to type 2.
- Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and may resolve after childbirth, but it increases the risk of developing type 2 later in life.
Symptoms
Symptoms of vary based on blood sugar levels. Some individuals, particularly those with prediabetes, gestational , or type 2 diabetes, may not experience symptoms. In type 1 , symptoms typically appear suddenly and are more severe.
Common symptoms of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unintentional weight loss, presence of ketones in urine (a byproduct of muscle and fat breakdown due to insufficient insulin), fatigue, mood changes, blurry vision, slow wound healing, and frequent infections like gum, skin, and vaginal infections.
Type 1 diabetes can begin at any age but often starts in childhood or adolescence. Type 2 diabetes, more prevalent, can develop at any age, with a higher occurrence in individuals over 40. However, there is a rising incidence of type 2 diabetes among children
Risk Determinant
1. Type 1
Often diagnosed in children and teenagers, occurs when the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to little to no insulin production. Genetic predisposition and family history play significant roles in its development.
2. Type 2
Typically develops in adults, although increasingly in younger individuals due to rising obesity rates. It is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body doesn’t effectively use insulin. Risk factors include being overweight, older age, family history, lack of physical activity, gestational
3. Type 1.5
Sometimes referred to as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), shares characteristics with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It typically occurs in adults over 30 and progresses more slowly than type 1 diabetes. People with LADA often present with autoimmune markers similar to type 1 diabetes, but they may initially be misdiagnosed as having type 2 diabetes due to their age and the potential absence of typical type 1 symptoms at diagnosis. Unlike type 2, oral medications and lifestyle changes may not be effective for managing type 1.5 diabetes over the long term.
4. Gestational
Overweight or Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk.
Age: Women who are over the age of 25 have a higher risk.
Previous Gestational Diabetes: If a woman had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, there is a higher likelihood of developing it again.
Large Baby: Giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (macrosomia) in a previous pregnancy increases the risk.
Family History: Having a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, with type 2 diabetes increases the risk.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing gestational
Difficulty
Hyperglycemia: Persistently high blood sugar levels can lead to immediate symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue. Over time, it can contribute to long-term complications.
Hypoglycemia: If insulin therapy is required and not managed properly, it can lead to episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can cause confusion, dizziness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
Cardiovascular Disease: including LADA, increases the risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and the heart over time.
Nerve Damage: Elevated blood sugar levels can damage the nerves throughout the body, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or pain, especially in the hands and feet.
Kidney Disease: It can damage the kidneys over time, leading to reduced kidney function and potentially kidney failure. Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential for people with LADA.
Eye Damage: High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy, which can cause vision problems and even blindness if left untreated.
Foot Problems: It can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage in the feet, increasing the risk of infections, ulcers, and in severe cases, amputation.
Precaution
Regular Monitoring: Monitor blood sugar levels regularly using a glucometer or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system as recommended by your healthcare provider. This helps in understanding how different factors (such as food, exercise, and medication) affect your blood sugar levels.
Medication Adherence: Take medications as prescribed, whether it’s oral medications or insulin therapy. Consistent adherence to medication regimens helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Healthy Diet: Follow a balanced and nutritious diet plan recommended by a registered dietitian or healthcare provider. This typically includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limiting sugary foods and beverages is essential.
Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise or physical activity as advised by your healthcare team. Physical activity helps in managing weight, improving insulin sensitivity, and controlling blood sugar levels.
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Control: Monitor and control blood pressure and cholesterol levels through medication, diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. High blood pressure and cholesterol are risk factors for cardiovascular complications
Regular Medical Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider for diabetes management and monitoring of potential complications. This includes eye exams, kidney function tests, and other relevant screenings.
Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so managing stress effectively is important.