What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how the body processes blood sugar or glucose. With diabetes, the pancreas either produces little to no insulin, or the body is unable to use insulin effectively, resulting in high blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes - type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. It occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Those with type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily to control their blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not make enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes and is often preventable. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include obesity, lack of physical activity, family history and ethnicity.

Diabetes Management Tips

Diabetes Care management of blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and medication is key for those living with diabetes. Some effective ways to manage diabetes include:

- Healthy eating: Following a diet low in refined carbs and high in fiber can help control blood sugar levels. It's important to count carbohydrates and match insulin or oral medication dosage to what is eaten.

- Physical activity: Regular exercise like walking, swimming or strength training helps the body use insulin more effectively and reduces insulin resistance. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity on most days.

- Blood sugar monitoring: Checking blood sugar levels through finger pricks several times a day guides treatment decisions. This is especially important for those on insulin therapy.

- Medication adherence: For those on insulin or oral diabetes medication, it's important to take medications as prescribed to keep glucose in target ranges.

- Stress management: High stress can raise blood sugar levels. Practices like yoga, meditation or deep breathing help lower stress hormones.

- Quit smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of diabetes complications like eye, kidney and nerve damage over time. Kicking the habit greatly reduces risk.

Foot Care is Paramount

Foot problems are a major complication of diabetes and can potentially lead to ulcerations, infection and even amputation if not properly managed. Close monitoring and care of the feet is therefore extremely important for all those with diabetes. Some key foot care tips include:

- Daily foot inspection: Check feet from toe to heel daily for any cuts, blisters, redness or swelling and see a podiatrist for any concerning findings.

- Foot moisture: Keep feet clean and dry, especially between the toes. Use a mild soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.

- Nail clipping: Trim toenails straight across and file any sharp edges with an emery board to prevent ingrown toenails.

- Shoe fitting: Wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes and never walk barefoot, especially on rough surfaces that can cause cuts or blisters.

- Foot problems reporting: See a doctor immediately for any foot injury, pain or signs of infection like increased swelling or redness. Early treatment prevents worsening.

Diabetes Health Complications

If blood sugar levels remain poorly managed over many years, it can significantly increase the risk of serious health complications affecting many organs in the body. Some common long-term diabetes complications include:

Eye Problems: Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness among working age adults. Over time, high glucose can damage tiny blood vessels inside the retina, potentially causing vision impairment or even blindness. Retinopathy needs to be regularly monitored through dilated eye exams.

Kidney Disease: Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney failure globally. High blood glucose can slowly damage the tiny blood vessels inside the kidneys over many years, reducing their ability to filter waste from the blood. This may eventually lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.

Nerve Damage: Diabetes can injure nerves throughout the body in a condition called diabetic neuropathy. It commonly first appears as pain or numbness in the feet and can eventually affect other areas. Over time, it may severely impair physical functioning.

Heart Disease: People with diabetes have double the risk of heart attacks and strokes compared to those without diabetes. Over the long run, poorly controlled glucose worsens cholesterol levels, blood pressure and sticks blood vessels, all increasing the chances of cardiovascular problems.

These are some of the most serious but preventable diabetes complications if blood sugar is well-managed through lifestyle and medical treatment. Regular doctor monitoring through recommended tests is key to early detection and mitigation of complications.

Diabetes Management is a Lifelong Commitment

In the while there is no cure for diabetes currently, it can absolutely be managed successfully with commitment to lifestyle changes, medication adherence and routine doctor checkups. The risks of devastating health complications are significantly reduced when blood sugar levels are closely monitored and treatment plans followed diligently as advised by healthcare providers and certified diabetes educators. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preventing glucose extremes requires ongoing effort, but it is well worth it to live a long and complication-free life while managing this chronic condition.

About Author:

Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)