Diabetes Explained

Diabetes Explained

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is a key source of energy for the body’s cells, and insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps glucose enter the cells. In diabetes, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or the body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Classification of Diabetes

Diabetes is classified as a chronic illness. It is a metabolic disorder that results in high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems.

Diabetes Health Signs and Symptoms

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Increased thirst and hunger
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• Darkened skin patches (often in the armpits or neck)

In some cases, diabetes can be present without symptoms, especially in the early stages.

Types of Diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It usually appears in childhood or adolescence.
2. Type 2 Diabetes: The most common type, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin. It often develops in adults but can occur at any age.
3. Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and typically resolves after the baby is born. However, it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

How to Test for Diabetes

Diagnosing diabetes involves several tests:

• Fasting Blood Glucose Test: Measures blood sugar after fasting for at least 8 hours. Levels over 126 mg/dL indicate diabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Blood sugar is tested before and two hours after drinking a sugary liquid. A result of 200 mg/dL or higher after 2 hours suggests diabetes.
• Hemoglobin A1c Test (HbA1c): This test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. An A1c of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
• Random Blood Sugar Test: A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher, regardless of when the person last ate, can indicate diabetes.
• Urine Tests: These tests can check for glucose or ketones (present in Type 1 diabetes).

What Type of Health Professionals Treat Diabetes?

• Primary Care Physicians (PCPs): Often the first point of contact for diagnosis and treatment.
• Endocrinologists: Specialists in hormone-related disorders, including diabetes.
• Dietitians/Nutritionists: Help manage diabetes through diet and nutrition plans.
• Podiatrists: Treat foot-related complications, which are common in diabetes.
• Ophthalmologists: Address vision issues related to diabetes, such as diabetic retinopathy.
• Diabetes Educators: Provide guidance on managing diabetes through education and support.

How to Prepare to See a Health Specialist?

• Keep a record of symptoms, including when they started and their frequency.
• List current medications, supplements, and dosages.
• Write down any questions or concerns related to diabetes management.
• Bring results from previous blood tests or screenings if available.
• Record family history of diabetes or related conditions.

What Questions to Ask a Doctor?

• What type of diabetes do I have, and how does it affect my body?
• How can I control my blood sugar levels?
• Do I need insulin or other medications?
• What lifestyle changes will help manage my diabetes?
• How can I prevent complications associated with diabetes?
• How often should I monitor my blood sugar?
• What signs should I watch for to avoid emergencies?

What Type of Treatments Exist?

• Medications:
  • Type 1 Diabetes: Requires daily insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: May be managed with oral medications like metformin, injectable medications, or insulin if necessary.
  • Gestational Diabetes: May require insulin or medications if blood sugar levels can’t be controlled through diet and exercise.
• Lifestyle Changes: Diet, exercise, and weight management are key components of treatment for all types of diabetes.
• Insulin Therapy: For patients with Type 1 diabetes or advanced Type 2 diabetes, insulin injections are needed to control blood sugar.

How to Monitor Diabetes

• Blood Glucose Meters: Allow you to check your blood sugar levels at home.
• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs): Devices that track glucose levels throughout the day and night.
• A1c Tests: These should be done every 3-6 months to monitor long-term glucose control.
• Foot Examinations: Check for sores, infections, or changes in skin color, as diabetes can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage.
• Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are essential to monitor for diabetic retinopathy or other vision issues.

How to Manage Diabetes

• Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly check and record your blood sugar levels to stay within the target range.
• Medication Management: Follow prescribed treatments, including insulin or oral medications.
• Exercise: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to improve insulin sensitivity.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, especially for Type 2 diabetes.
• Stress Management: High stress levels can affect blood sugar control, so techniques like meditation or breathing exercises can be helpful.

Nutrition Dos and Don’ts

• Dos:
  • Eat plenty of non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking water or unsweetened beverages.
  • Monitor carbohydrate intake and choose complex carbs over refined ones.
• Don’ts:
  • Avoid sugary drinks, processed foods, and excessive salt.
  • Limit consumption of saturated fats and trans fats.

Lifestyle Dos and Don’ts

• Dos:
  • Get regular physical activity.
  • Quit smoking, as it raises the risk of complications.
  • Practice good foot care and visit a podiatrist regularly.
  • Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Don’ts:
  • Avoid prolonged periods of inactivity.
  • Don’t skip meals, as this can lead to unstable blood sugar levels.
  • Don’t rely solely on medication without making lifestyle changes.

Emergency Situations

Diabetes-related emergencies include:

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Symptoms include dizziness, sweating, confusion, or fainting. Treat by consuming glucose tablets, juice, or candy.
• Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar): Symptoms include frequent urination, extreme thirst, and fatigue. Seek medical advice if blood sugar levels are consistently high.
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): Occurs when the body starts breaking down fat at a rapid rate, leading to acidic blood. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate hospitalization.

Questions Related to Diabetes 

1. What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

   • Type 1 is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. Type 2 occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough.

2. Can diabetes be cured?

   • There is no cure, but it can be effectively managed with medication, diet, and lifestyle changes.

3. Can I prevent Type 2 diabetes?

   • Yes, by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking.

4. How often should I check my blood sugar?

   • This depends on your treatment plan, but typically, Type 1 patients check multiple times a day, while Type 2 patients may check less frequently.

5. Do I need to take insulin for Type 2 diabetes?

   • Not always. Many patients manage Type 2 diabetes with oral medications, diet, and exercise, but insulin may be needed as the condition progresses.

6. Can stress raise my blood sugar?

   • Yes, stress can cause blood sugar levels to spike. Managing stress is an important part of diabetes care.

7. What should I do if my blood sugar is too high?

   • Follow your doctor’s instructions, which may include taking insulin, drinking water, or exercising. If blood sugar remains high, seek medical help.

8. Can diabetes affect my vision?

   • Yes, diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma, so regular eye exams are important.

9. What foods should I avoid?

   • Avoid sugary foods, processed snacks, and high-fat, fried foods, as they can spike blood sugar levels.

10. How does exercise help manage diabetes?

• Exercise helps the body use insulin more efficiently, lowers blood sugar, and improves overall health.