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You know when you eat too many sweets and get diabetes? Paparazzi are the diabetes of materialistic culture.

Diabetes

By Ravindu LaksaraPublished about a year ago 3 min read
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Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high levels of glucose in the blood. It occurs when the body is unable to produce insulin, which is responsible for regulating the amount of sugar in the bloodstream, or when the body is unable to use insulin effectively. Diabetes is a growing health concern worldwide, affecting millions of people of all ages, races, and ethnicities. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment of diabetes, as well as some important lifestyle changes that can help manage this disease.

Types of Diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults and requires lifelong insulin therapy.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and occurs when the body is unable to use insulin effectively or does not produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity, and can be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, and insulin therapy.

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and is usually diagnosed between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy. Gestational diabetes usually resolves after pregnancy, but women who have had gestational diabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Causes of Diabetes

The causes of diabetes are complex and multifactorial. Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including viruses and other infections. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity and physical inactivity, which can lead to insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance. Other risk factors for type 2 diabetes include genetics, age, and certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome and sleep apnea.

Gestational diabetes is thought to be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, which can make it more difficult for the body to use insulin effectively. Women who are overweight or obese, have a family history of diabetes, or have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy are at increased risk of developing gestational diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes

The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes and the severity of the disease. Common symptoms of type 1 diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. In type 2 diabetes, symptoms may be mild or absent in the early stages of the disease, but can include frequent infections, slow-healing wounds, blurred vision, and tingling or numbness in the hands or feet. Gestational diabetes may not cause any symptoms, but can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby if left untreated.

Diagnosis of Diabetes

Diabetes is usually diagnosed through a blood test that measures the level of glucose in the blood. A fasting blood glucose test measures glucose levels after an overnight fast, while a random blood glucose test measures glucose levels at any time of day. A hemoglobin A1c test measures the average blood glucose levels over a period of 2-3 months. In some cases, additional tests such as an oral glucose tolerance test or a urine test may be needed to confirm a diagnosis of diabetes.

Treatment of Diabetes

The treatment of diabetes depends on the type of diabetes and the severity of the disease. Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy, which may be administered through injections or an insulin pump. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular physical activity, and a healthy diet. Medications such as metformin, sulfonylureas, and DPP-4 inhibitors may also be prescribed to help lower blood glucose levels

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About the Creator

Ravindu Laksara

Good health is not something we can buy. However, it can be an extremely valuable savings account.

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