Derick Rwakibale
Diabetes Mellitus (commonly called diabetes) is a long-term condition that affects how your body processes sugar (glucose), which is the main source of energy. In simple terms, people with diabetes either don’t make enough insulin—a hormone that helps glucose enter cells—or their bodies can’t use insulin properly. Without insulin working as it should, glucose builds up in the blood, which can lead to serious health problems if not controlled.
Types of Diabetes
- Type 1 Diabetes
This type is usually diagnosed in children or young adults, but it can happen at any age. In Type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, leaving the body with little or no insulin. As a result, people with Type 1 need insulin injections for the rest of their lives to manage their blood sugar levels. - Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes and typically affects adults, though more children are being diagnosed due to lifestyle factors. In this type, the body still produces insulin, but it doesn’t use it effectively. As the disease progresses, the pancreas may make less insulin. This type of diabetes is often linked to being overweight, lack of physical activity, and poor diet. - Other Types of Diabetes
Some people develop diabetes due to other medical conditions or medications. This is known as secondary diabetes. It can be caused by diseases of the pancreas, certain hormonal conditions, or the use of medications like steroids. There’s also gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy but usually disappears after the baby is born.
Who Is at Risk?
- Type 1 Diabetes: Risk factors include having family members with the condition, certain viral infections, and autoimmune diseases.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Risk factors are more lifestyle-related. If you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight, don’t exercise regularly, or smoke, you are at higher risk. Eating an unhealthy diet high in sugar and fats can also increase the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Diabetes can cause several noticeable symptoms, including:
- Feeling very thirsty (polydipsia)
- Needing to urinate more frequently (polyuria)
- Feeling extremely hungry (polyphagia)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Blurred vision
Type 2 diabetes, in particular, can sometimes develop slowly, and you might not notice any symptoms. In some cases, it’s only discovered when complications arise or through routine screening.
How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose diabetes through blood tests. Here are a few common ones:
- Fasting blood glucose test: Measures blood sugar levels after not eating for 8 hours. A result over 126 mg/dL suggests diabetes.
- Random blood sugar test: A level above 200 mg/dL at any time of the day, combined with symptoms, may indicate diabetes.
- Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): After drinking a sugary solution, blood sugar is measured. If it stays high, this confirms diabetes.
Another test, called HbA1C, shows how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the past 2-3 months. While it’s not usually used for diagnosis, it helps doctors monitor treatment.
Managing Diabetes
- Diet and Nutrition
For many people, especially those with Type 2 diabetes, diet plays a major role in managing blood sugar. Eating a balanced diet—one that includes healthy carbohydrates, fats, and proteins—can help. Consult with your doctor or a nutritionist to create a meal plan that meets your specific needs. - Medications
Some people with diabetes need medications to help control their blood sugar levels:- Oral medications (for Type 2 diabetes): These drugs, such as metformin, help the body use insulin more effectively or reduce the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
- Insulin therapy: Necessary for all people with Type 1 diabetes and some with Type 2. It helps regulate blood sugar when diet and oral medications aren’t enough.
- Exercise
Regular physical activity can improve how your body uses insulin and help keep blood sugar levels in check. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. - Self-monitoring and Education
Learning how to monitor your blood sugar at home is an important part of managing diabetes. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how often to check your levels and what numbers to aim for. You’ll also learn how to recognize and treat low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), a potential side effect of insulin and some diabetes medications.
Living Well with Diabetes
While diabetes is a lifelong condition, it can be managed effectively with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. With proper care, many people with diabetes live long, healthy lives. Key factors for success include eating a healthy diet, staying active, regularly monitoring blood sugar, taking prescribed medications, and attending regular check-ups.
Conclusion
Diabetes may seem overwhelming at first, but with proper education and support, it can be controlled. Early diagnosis and a commitment to lifestyle changes can make all the difference in preventing complications and living a fulfilling life. Consult with your doctor if you think you’re at risk or are experiencing any symptoms.
The writer works with Medical Teams International
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