Diabetes, a Chronic Journey...
Written by: Abhilasha MPH22014
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. It is a journey that millions of people around the world embark upon, and it can have a significant impact on one’s daily life and overall well-being. The journey often begins with a diagnosis, which can be a life changing moment. Understanding the condition, its three types (type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes) and its management is essential.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack the cells in your pancreas that make insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body’s cells use glucose for energy. When you have type 1 diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use insulin properly.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is often linked to excess weight or obesity.
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy. It usually goes away after the baby is born, but it can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Symptoms of diabetes: The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes and how long it has been uncontrolled. Some common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, Slow-healing sores, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Causes of diabetes: The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, such as obesity and physical inactivity. Gestational diabetes is caused by changes in the way the body metabolizes glucose during pregnancy.
Complications of diabetes: Diabetes can lead to various complications over time if not well-managed. High blood sugar levels can damage organs and tissues throughout the body. Over time, this damage can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, nerve damage, amputation etc. These complications may affect the eyes (diabetic retinopathy), kidney (diabetic nephropathy), nerves (neuropathy) and cardiovascular system (heart disease and stroke). Over time, individuals with diabetes develop the resilience and adaptability needed to navigate the challenges that come their way. This includes managing fluctuations in blood sugar levels, handling unexpected situations, and making ongoing adjustments to their treatment plans.
Diagnosis and treatment of diabetes: Diabetes is usually diagnosed with a blood test. The most common blood tests used to diagnose diabetes are the fasting blood sugar test and the oral glucose tolerance test.
There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed with medication, diet, and exercise. The goal of diabetes treatment is to keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day. Insulin can be injected, inhaled, or taken through a pump. People with type 2 diabetes may be able to manage their blood sugar levels with diet and exercise alone, but they may also need to take oral medications or insulin. People with gestational diabetes may be able to manage their blood sugar levels with diet and exercise alone, but they may also need to take insulin.
Prevention of diabetes: There is no sure way to prevent type 1 diabetes. However, type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise.
Living with diabetes: Diabetes is a serious condition, but it is possible to live a long and healthy life with diabetes. By managing your blood sugar levels and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can reduce your risk of developing complications. Here are some tips for living with diabetes:
- Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet for diabetes includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated and unhealthy fats.
- Get regular exercise: Exercise helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Take your medications as prescribed: If you have been prescribed medications for diabetes, it is important to take them as prescribed by your doctor.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels: Monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly helps you to see how your body is responding to food, exercise, and medication.
- See your doctor regularly: It is important to see your doctor for regular checkups and screenings to monitor your diabetes and prevent complications.
If you have diabetes, you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you manage your condition and live a healthy life.
Please note that while diabetes is a chronic condition, it is manageable, and many people with diabetes lead fulfilling and healthy lives. With proper education, support and self-care, individuals can effectively navigate this chronic journey and minimize the impact of diabetes on their quality of life.