What is Diabetes and how is it caused?

 

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body processes glucose, a type of sugar that serves as its primary source of energy. Glucose comes from the food you eat, and insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy use.

Types of Diabetes

1. Type 1 Diabetes:

   • The immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
   • This leads to little or no insulin production.
   • Usually diagnosed in children and young adults, but it can occur at any age.
   • Cause: Likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors, though the exact triggers are not fully understood.

2. Type 2 Diabetes:

   • The body either becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels.
   • Commonly associated with lifestyle factors like obesity, lack of exercise, and unhealthy eating habits, though genetics also play a role.
   • Typically develops in adults but is increasingly seen in younger people.

3. Gestational Diabetes:

   • Occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes impair insulin function.
   • Usually resolves after childbirth, but it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later.

4. Other Forms:

   • Result from specific conditions such as genetic disorders, pancreatic diseases, or certain medications.

Causes of Diabetes

The causes depend on the type of diabetes:

• Type 1 Diabetes:

  • Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells.
  • Triggers may include viral infections, genetic predisposition, or environmental factors.

• Type 2 Diabetes:

  • Insulin resistance due to obesity, poor diet, or inactivity.
  • Genetic factors influencing insulin function.
  • Increased risk with aging and certain ethnicities.

• Gestational Diabetes:

  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy.
  • Risk factors include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or being over 25 during pregnancy.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Unexplained weight loss
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow healing of wounds
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (type 2 diabetes)

Management

• Lifestyle Changes: Healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management.
• Medication: Insulin therapy (type 1 diabetes) or oral medications (type 2 diabetes).
• Monitoring: Regular blood sugar monitoring to maintain levels within the target range.

Early detection and management are critical to prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision problems.

Palium Healthcare is an initiative of Palium Foundation and is established with the objective of helping children, adolescents, adults and elderly to deal with health challenges. Our professionals strive to provide excellent treatment at affordable cost.