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Diabetes
Also known as diabetes mellitus. Diabetes is the term used for the abnormalities in the regulation of blood glucose levels.
3 Types of Diabetes
Type 1
People with Type 1 diabetes make little or no insulin and it is known as an auto immune condition. The body attacks the beta cells within the pancreas that makes insulin, eventually destroying and shutting them down over time so the body cannot make its own insulin. This is when insulin injections are required as well as regular healthy eating plans to maintain a healthy body and to keep people with type 2 diabetes alive.
Type 2
People with Type 2 diabetes either have a sluggish manufacturing of insulin or their body is insulin resistant. Being overweight is one of the main causes of the body becoming resistant to insulin. This can trigger Type 2 diabetes in people of all ages. Type 2 diabetics can be treated with weight loss and regular physical activity. Sometimes they may also require medication to reduce the resistance to insulin or to stimulate the pancreas to make more insulin.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is when a pregnant woman has high levels of glucose in her blood. During pregnancy women need 2 -3 times glucose in the blood than that of a woman that is not pregnant. High blood glucose is caused because the mother cannot produce enough insulin. Gestational Diabetes is usually managed with diet and exercise, in extreme cases insulin may be needed. This is to reduce risks or complications and help to keep mother and baby safe through the pregnancy. Gestational diabetes usually disappears once the baby is born.
Complications and Symptoms of Diabetes
Early Common Symptoms of Diabetes:
• Weight loss
• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Irritability
• Yeast infections
• Blurry vision
• Skin wounds or infections that are slow to heal
• Numbness and tingling in the feet
Hyperglycaemia: (Low Blood Sugar) When hyperglycaemia occurs, the body tries to get rid of the excess glucose by passing it in the urine. This increases urine output and can lead to dehydration. At the same time the body's cells are starved of the glucose energy they need. Hypoglycaemia also known as diabetic shock can occur in moderate to a severe form. Effects of hypoglycaemia can range from a chemical acetone breath,“feeling bad”, noticeable impaired judgement, fatigue, light-headedness, fainting, irrational and bizarre behaviour, reddening of the skin, seizures and unconsciousness. These kinds of symptoms require immediate medical treatment and a follow up with a doctor. Changes in diet, medication, or insulin may be used to help prevent any more episodes.
Ketoacidosis (High Blood Sugar ) This is a serious condition that can lead to diabetic coma or in some cases even death. Ketones are acids that build up in the blood and appear in the urine when your body doesn't have enough insulin. The cells don't get the glucose they need for energy so the body begins to burn fat for the energy, which in turn produces ketones. This is a warning sign that your diabetes is out of control or that you are getting sick. High levels of ketones can poison the body. When levels get too high, you can develop diabetic ketoacidosis. Seek medical attention immediately especially if vomiting occurs as this is life threatening. Symptoms in most cases develop slowly so knowing the early signs and what to look for can be vital to survival.
Ketoacidosis Symptoms
• Unquenchable thirst or a very dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• High blood glucose (sugar) levels
• High levels of ketones in the urine
Followed by Other Symptoms:
- Constant tiredness
- Dry or flushed skin
- Nausea, vomiting, and or abdominal pain
(Vomiting can be caused by many illnesses, not just ketoacidosis. If vomiting continues for more than 2 hours, contact your health care provider.)
- Difficulty breathing (short, deep breaths)
- Fruity odour on breath
- A hard time paying attention, or confusion
Diabetes not managed properly can lead to:
• Heart Disease
• Gum Disease
• Kidney Disease
• Foot Ulcers
• Nerve Pain
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Coeliac
• Ketones
• Amputation
• Wasting Muscles in Hands or Feet
• Numbness or Pain in the Hands, Feet, Arms or Legs
• Eye Problems/Blindness
How to Prevent Diabetes
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get regular exercise.
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