What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. This occurs either because the body doesn't produce enough insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar) or because the body's cells don't respond effectively to insulin, or both.
There are three main types of diabetes:
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Type 1 diabetes: This type occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy to survive.
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Type 2 diabetes: This type is more common and usually develops gradually over time. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and medication.
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Gestational diabetes: This type develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after childbirth. However, women who have had gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
What are the Major Symptoms of Diabetes
1. Excessive hunger: People with diabetes often experience excessive hunger. Because the body can't get sugar into the cells, a lack of energy results.
2. Rapid weight loss: People with diabetes may experience rapid weight loss. Because the body begins to break down and use muscle for energy.
3. Weakness or fatigue: People with diabetes often experience weakness or fatigue. Because the body does not produce enough energy.
4. Blurred vision: People with diabetes can damage the lens of the eye resulting in blurred vision.
5. Slow Dry Wounds: Blood circulation is reduced in people with diabetes, resulting in slow drying of wounds.
6. Itching: People with diabetes may experience itchy skin.
7. Dark spots around the face: People suffering from diabetes may develop dark spots around the face, neck, armpits.
What causes Diabetes?
The causes of diabetes depend on the different types of diabetes. However, there are some common causes that apply to all types of diabetes.
1. Insulin deficiency or insulin resistance: The main cause of diabetes is insulin deficiency or insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar (glucose) enter cells in the body. When the body does not produce enough insulin or cells become resistant to insulin, blood sugar levels rise and diabetes occurs.
2. Genetic Factors: The risk of developing diabetes can also be genetically increased. If you have a family history of diabetes, your risk of developing diabetes is higher.
3. Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing diabetes. These include:
Overweight or obesity: Being overweight or obese greatly increases the risk of developing diabetes.
Unhealthy eating habits: Unhealthy eating habits, such as eating too much sugar, processed foods and fast food, increase the risk of diabetes.
Being physically inactive: Being physically inactive increases the risk of diabetes.
Males vs. Females Diabetes Symptoms
Common symptoms:
Excessive hunger: People with diabetes often experience excessive hunger. Because the body cannot get sugar into the cells, a lack of energy occurs.
Rapid weight loss: People with diabetes may experience rapid weight loss. Because the body begins to break down and use muscle for energy.
Weakness or fatigue: People with diabetes often feel weak or tired. Because the body does not produce enough energy.
