Diabetes 101
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes:
An autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Usually diagnosed in children and young adults, but it can occur at any age.
Requires lifelong insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes:
The most common form of diabetes.
The body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin.
Often associated with obesity and lifestyle factors.
Can often be managed with lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin.
Gestational Diabetes:
Develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after childbirth.
Increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life for both mother and child.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Common Symptoms for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes:
Increased thirst and frequent urination
Extreme hunger
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
Areas of darkened skin (more common in Type 2 diabetes)
Causes and Risk Factors
Type 1 Diabetes:
Genetic factors
Environmental triggers (e.g., viral infections)
Family history of Type 1 diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes:
Overweight and obesity
Physical inactivity
Poor diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats
Family history of Type 2 diabetes
Age (risk increases after age 45)
Ethnic background (higher risk in African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian populations)
History of gestational diabetes
Treatment and Management
Type 1 Diabetes:
Insulin Therapy:
Multiple daily injections or use of an insulin pump.
Types of insulin include rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting.
Blood Sugar Monitoring:
Frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels using a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor (CGM).
Healthy Diet:
Balanced diet with controlled carbohydrate intake.
Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Physical Activity:
Regular exercise to help control blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.
Education and Support:
Diabetes self-management education and support from healthcare providers.
Type 2 Diabetes:
Lifestyle Changes:
Healthy diet and regular physical activity.
Weight loss if overweight or obese.
Oral Medications:
Metformin, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and others.
Insulin Therapy:
Sometimes required if blood sugar levels are not controlled with oral medications.
Blood Sugar Monitoring:
Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels.
Education and Support:
Diabetes self-management education and support from healthcare providers.
Gestational Diabetes:
Healthy Diet:
Balanced diet with controlled carbohydrate intake.
Physical Activity:
Regular, moderate exercise.
Blood Sugar Monitoring:
Frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels.
Medications:
Insulin or oral medications if blood sugar levels are not controlled through diet and exercise.
Preventing Complications
Regular Check-Ups:
Regular visits to healthcare providers for monitoring and managing diabetes.
Foot Care:
Daily inspection of feet for sores or injuries.
Regular foot exams by a healthcare provider.
Eye Care:
Annual eye exams to check for diabetic retinopathy.
Kidney Care:
Regular testing for kidney function.
Cardiovascular Health:
Manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and avoid smoking.
Support and Resources
Diabetes Education Programs:
Programs that provide education on managing diabetes.
Support Groups:
Connecting with others who have diabetes for mutual support.
Healthcare Team:
Working with a team of healthcare providers, including endocrinologists, dietitians, diabetes educators, and primary care doctors.
By understanding diabetes and actively managing the condition, individuals can lead healthy and fulfilling lives while minimizing the risk of complications. Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and adherence to treatment plans are essential for effective diabetes management.