Overview
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to process glucose (sugar) properly. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1, where the body does not produce insulin, and Type 2, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Both types can lead to serious health complications if left unmanaged.
Symptoms
Early symptoms of diabetes can include:
- Excessive thirst and hunger
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue and irritability
- Slow healing of cuts and bruises
For Type 2 diabetes, symptoms may develop slowly and go unnoticed for years.
Prevention
For Type 2 diabetes, preventive measures include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming
- Eating a diet high in fiber and whole grains and low in processed sugars and unhealthy fats
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Regular health check-ups and monitoring blood sugar levels
While Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, early diagnosis and management can reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment
- Type 1 diabetes: Insulin injections or an insulin pump are required to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Type 2 diabetes: Treatment typically starts with lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and weight management. If these measures are insufficient, oral medications or insulin therapy may be required.
- Monitoring: Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential for both types. Patients may also need to monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Long-term management is crucial to prevent complications like heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage.