Diabetes

Diabetes

Overview

  • Diabetes is a chronic condition linked to abnormal levels of glucose in the blood.
  • It results from either the body not producing enough insulin or the body not responding adequately to insulin.

Types of Diabetes

  • Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
  • Type 2 Diabetes is more common and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin and/or the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin.

Role of Insulin

  • Insulin is a hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas.
  • It regulates blood sugar by allowing glucose to get into cells, thus reducing the quantity of sugar in the bloodstream.

Symptoms of Diabetes

  • Symptoms can include frequent urination, increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and slow-healing wounds.
  • It’s essential to know these symptoms as early detection and treatment minimise the risk of serious complications.

Diabetes Management

  • Management can include insulin therapy, diet adjustments, and regular exercise.
  • People with Type 1 diabetes need regular insulin injections because their body doesn’t produce insulin.
  • Those with Type 2 diabetes can often manage their condition through diet and exercise, but medication and insulin may also be needed.

Long-term Effects of Diabetes

  • Without proper management, high sugar levels can lead to a range of complications including heart disease, kidney disease, eye problems and nerve damage.
  • Regular screenings are essential to detect signs of these complications early.

Importance

  • Understanding diabetes is crucial as it is one of the most common hormonal disorders.
  • It demonstrates how hormone imbalances can affect overall health and wellbeing.

Thorough understanding of diabetes aids in recognising its symptoms, understanding its treatment, and increases awareness about this common condition. Always remember the hormone involved (insulin), the organ responsible for production (pancreas), and the issues when insulin production or usage is impaired.