Diabetes mellitus is a multi-organ, chronic disorder identified by high levels of sugar in the systemic circulation. It has two kinds, namely, type 1 diabetes because of the absence of insulin-manufacturing cells in the pancreas, which in turn brings about insulin deficiency, and type 2 diabetes that comes from insulin resistance or cellular inability to make use of insulin. The incidence of diabetes is growing quickly worldwide, but most notably in developed countries. As of 2010, it is estimated that 285 million individuals all over the world have diabetes, with Type 2 DM comprising 9 out of 10 of these cases. It is projected that by 2030, this number will be more than doubled.
What causes diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes
This type of diabetes is partly inherited, and it often shows up after an infection. In type 1 DM, the immune system attacks and eliminates insulin-producing cells, leaving the body without or little insulin. This type of diabetes is not brought about by lifestyle, and it can appear earlier or in life, in many instances, during childhood.
Type 2 diabetes
This kind of diabetes is a disease of affluence, and it is strongly related to obesity, although not all type 2 DM sufferers are at an unhealthy weight. Genetics can also predispose you to have type 2 diabetes, and environmental factors activates this predisposition. Particular diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome for instance, and some medications, just like glucocorticoids, can raise the risk for diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetes
Both kinds of diabetes can demonstrate identical signs and symptoms. Diabetes patients often experience increased thirst and consequently frequent urination, frequent and intense food cravings and increased susceptibility to fatigue because of cellular starvation, and frequent infections. Inexplicable weight loss may also be experienced, but not everytime. Badly managed diabetes can also lead to microvascular changes, which can lead to blurred vision, delayed wound healing especially in the lower extremities, and decreased sensation in the hands and feet, which increases their chance of being wounded without them knowing.
Treatment
At present there is no cure yet for diabetes, but it can be managed effectively and complications can be prevented through medications, like insulin and oral hypoglycemics, and changes in lifestyle, specifically following a controlled diet and increasing physical activity. Keeping track of blood sugar and regular check-ups with a physician are also essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medical management as well as the progression of the disease. For diabetes that is hard to control, a pancreas transplant is also an alternative, but only utilized as a final resort. It is also important to quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption because these can speed up the development of complications.
What causes diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes
This type of diabetes is partly inherited, and it often shows up after an infection. In type 1 DM, the immune system attacks and eliminates insulin-producing cells, leaving the body without or little insulin. This type of diabetes is not brought about by lifestyle, and it can appear earlier or in life, in many instances, during childhood.
Type 2 diabetes
This kind of diabetes is a disease of affluence, and it is strongly related to obesity, although not all type 2 DM sufferers are at an unhealthy weight. Genetics can also predispose you to have type 2 diabetes, and environmental factors activates this predisposition. Particular diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome for instance, and some medications, just like glucocorticoids, can raise the risk for diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetes
Both kinds of diabetes can demonstrate identical signs and symptoms. Diabetes patients often experience increased thirst and consequently frequent urination, frequent and intense food cravings and increased susceptibility to fatigue because of cellular starvation, and frequent infections. Inexplicable weight loss may also be experienced, but not everytime. Badly managed diabetes can also lead to microvascular changes, which can lead to blurred vision, delayed wound healing especially in the lower extremities, and decreased sensation in the hands and feet, which increases their chance of being wounded without them knowing.
Treatment
At present there is no cure yet for diabetes, but it can be managed effectively and complications can be prevented through medications, like insulin and oral hypoglycemics, and changes in lifestyle, specifically following a controlled diet and increasing physical activity. Keeping track of blood sugar and regular check-ups with a physician are also essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medical management as well as the progression of the disease. For diabetes that is hard to control, a pancreas transplant is also an alternative, but only utilized as a final resort. It is also important to quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption because these can speed up the development of complications.
About the Author:
The incidence of diabetes is rapidly growing across the globe, and the first step to slowing down this trend is by educating ourselves about this disease. Go here to discover more about Diabetes.
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