Things you should know about diabetes
The number of patients with diabetes has doubled in the last 20 years. When this information just came out, many people realized how important it is to know as many things as possible about it. We need to educate ourselves about diabetes so that we can recognize the symptoms early. Early diagnosis can significantly decrease the number of complications which come with this disease.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease which occurs when the body isn’t able to use and store glucose properly. Because of that, the glucose then backs up in the bloodstream, and then those glucose levels become too high.
What are the warning signs?
Some of the diabetes symptoms are things that a lot of us experience from time to time. For example, one common symptom is always feeling tired. Of course, if you’re always tired, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have diabetes. This might be due to some other underlying issue. You need to know is that these issues need to be more pronounced than usual to be considered as diabetes symptoms. Being very thirsty most of the time is a common symptom, too. Other symptoms include: weight loss, increased feelings of hunger, vision becoming increasingly blurred, numbness or tingling sensations in the hands and feet, and having wounds that can’t heal. It’s also important for you to know that psychological and mood-related symptoms such as irritability and fatigue are also big warning signs.
Which types of diabetes are there?
There are type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. People often get confused about type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 is caused by pancreas not being able to produce enough insulin. Causes of this type of diabetes are not yet known. Type 2 starts with a person becoming insulin resistant. After a while, the person will also start to lack insulin. Causes of this type of diabetes are excessive weight and not getting enough exercise. So, the advice on how to prevent it are straightforward: more physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight. Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women who will now have high levels of blood sugar.
How to treat it?
The most essential thing that all diabetes patients have to do regularly is checking their blood pressure. All people with type 1 diabetes and some of the people with type 2 diabetes have to take insulin injections. For those who fear injections, don’t worry, they’re really thin and cause very little to no pain. Extra tip: if you want to reduce the pain, don’t take insulin directly out of the refrigerator. Wait for a while until it reaches room temperature.
Regular doctor visits are essential. Even if you’re treating diabetes properly and the medication is working, you should still see the doctor at least every 6 months. People with diabetes are at risk of developing sight problems. They should get their eyes checked every year, regardless of success in treatment.
Lastly, it can be beneficial to visit a nutritionist. They can help you with meal plans. This way, you’ll be sure that you’re getting all of the essential nutrients, while you’re staying away from food that can harm you.
Diabetes has become a common disease. While it’s often in the form of chronic disease, there are many practical ways of managing it. These were just some of the few essential things that everyone should know about diabetes. Stay curious and continue educating yourself about it.
