What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic disorder that affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels due to a dysfunction in insulin production or the body's response to it.
This dysfunction leads to the accumulation of sugar in the blood, causing uncomfortable symptoms and serious complications if not managed properly.
Diabetes is not a single disease but includes several types, the most common being type 1 and type 2, each with its own causes and characteristics.
What are the causes of diabetes?
There are several common causes of diabetes, including:
- Family history of the disease
- Overweight and obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Consuming large amounts of sugar and fat
- Aging
- Chronic psychological stress
- Sleep disorders
- Autoimmune diseases affecting the pancreas
What are the common symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms that patients may experience include:
- Persistent thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- General fatigue and exhaustion
- Blurred vision
- Slow wound healing
- Frequent infections in the skin, mouth, or urinary tract
When should you see a doctor?
It is advised to consult a doctor immediately if any of the following occur:
- Sudden spike in blood sugar levels
- Loss of consciousness or severe dizziness
- Appearance of unusual new symptoms
- Medications no longer working effectively
- Strong family history of diabetes with early signs appearing
How is diabetes diagnosed?
Diabetes is diagnosed using several methods, including:
- Fasting blood glucose test, which measures sugar levels after eight hours of fasting
- Oral glucose tolerance test, which measures the body's response to sugar intake
- HbA1c test, which shows the average blood sugar level over the past three months
- Random blood sugar test, which measures sugar at any time of the day
- Urine test to detect sugar or ketones
What are the treatment methods for diabetes?
There are several ways to treat diabetes, including:
- Using insulin in type 1 and some type 2 cases
- Taking blood sugar-lowering medications like Metformin
- Following a healthy and balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Monitoring blood sugar levels frequently
- Losing weight in cases of obesity
Can diabetes be cured?
Complete recovery from diabetes is currently not possible, especially for type 1. However, it can be effectively managed, allowing patients to live normal lives if they commit to treatment and a healthy lifestyle.
In some type 2 cases, excellent control can be achieved without medication, especially with weight loss and dietary improvements.
What are the tips for preventing diabetes?
Here are some tips to help prevent diabetes:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat fiber-rich foods and reduce sugar intake
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid chronic stress and fatigue
- Get sufficient and regular sleep
- Undergo regular checkups, especially for those with a family history
What are the possible complications of diabetes?
Some complications may occur if treatment is neglected, such as:
- Heart and vascular problems
- Kidney failure
- Vision loss
- Nerve damage
- Foot ulcers that may lead to amputation
- Frequent skin or mouth infections
Common questions about diabetes
Can children get diabetes?
Yes, especially type 1.
Does diabetes affect pregnancy?
Yes, and it requires close medical monitoring.
Can sweets be eaten?
In moderation and within a calculated meal plan.
Is diabetes hereditary?
Genetics play a significant role.
Can exercise be done?
Yes, and it is essential for managing the disease.
Article summary
Diabetes is not the end of the road, but the beginning of a new phase that requires awareness and commitment.
Through early detection, a proper diet, and physical activity, the disease can be controlled and its complications avoided.
Do not ignore the symptoms, and do not delay seeing a doctor, as every day of delay may worsen the condition.