Diabetes is a serious condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can have significant health implications if it isn’t managed properly, including damage to your eyes, kidneys, and nerves. To prevent complications and stay healthy, you should understand what San Pedro diabetes is and how to manage it.
It happens when too much glucose (sugar) is in your blood. A condition where your body either doesn’t make enough insulin, the hormone that helps the cells absorb glucose, or can’t use it properly. When this happens, glucose builds up in your bloodstream and causes long-term complications.
Types of Diabetes
There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1
It is usually diagnosed in children, adolescents, and young adults. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, destroying them and leaving little to no insulin available for the body to use. People with type 1 must take insulin injections to control their blood glucose levels.
Type 2
It is the most common form of diabetes, typically diagnosed in adults over 40. In this case, your body can’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly (known as insulin resistance). People with type 2 diabetes must take insulin injections or oral medications to control their blood glucose levels.
The common symptoms of diabetes are:
- Excessive thirst: The thirst signal sent by the brain could be related to increased blood glucose levels.
- Frequent urination: When there is too much glucose in the blood, some will appear in urine, which causes frequent trips to the bathroom.
- Feeling very hungry: If your body is not able to use glucose, it won’t be able to use energy for other activities, making you feel extra hungry.
- Unexplained weight loss: When your body cannot process glucose properly, it will start burning fat and muscle for energy instead, leading to weight loss.
- Fatigue: Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) can make you tired and weak.
- Blurred vision: High glucose levels in the blood can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of your eyes, making it difficult for you to focus.
If you have any of these symptoms, remember to get checked by a doctor immediately, as early diagnosis is key in preventing serious complications. The diagnosis is based on various factors, including your medical history, physical exam, and specific blood tests. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes to help manage the condition.
The causes of diabetes are still unknown; however, certain risk factors can increase your chances of getting it. These include being overweight or obese, having a family history of the condition, being over 45 years, leading an inactive lifestyle, and eating an unhealthy diet.
Diabetes treatment options
These are some of the treatment options you should know:
Lifestyle changes
Your lifestyle can play a huge role in diabetes management. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help you control your blood glucose levels, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall health.
Medications
Your doctor may also prescribe certain medications to help you better manage diabetes. These medications work by increasing insulin production or sensitivity and improving glucose utilization.
Insulin therapy
This is the most common treatment for type 1 diabetes. Insulin injections help control blood glucose levels and prevent complications.
If you have any of the symptoms associated with diabetes, talk to your doctor at Harbor Community Clinic.