Diabetes, commonly referred to as diabetes mellitus, is a long-term condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal. Glucose is the main energy source for our bodies, but too much can lead to fatigue, thirst, and blurry vision. Research shows that about 11% of people in the U.S. have some form of diabetes. Thankfully, there are ways to manage diabetes through lifestyle changes and medication. By learning about diabetes and how to handle it, you can prevent long-term issues and enhance your overall well-being.
There are different types of diabetes, each with its own symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment, though some elements overlap. Understanding these variations is key. For example, symptoms of type 1 diabetes (T1D) often appear quickly, within weeks, and can be more severe. T1D may also lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious condition that causes symptoms like vomiting and stomach pain.
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) often presents no symptoms initially, but as blood sugar increases or organ damage occurs, symptoms become noticeable. If you suspect type 2 diabetes, watch for specific signs. Type 3c diabetes shares symptoms with both types 1 and 2, but can also include issues from pancreatic damage. Gestational diabetes usually doesn’t show symptoms, but during pregnancy, increased thirst and urination can occur.
Your pancreas creates insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter your cells for energy. After eating, blood sugar rises, prompting the pancreas to release insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. If the pancreas doesn’t work properly, blood sugar remains high, leading to diabetes symptoms.
Diabetes stems from problems in the pancreas. In type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas, damaging insulin-producing cells. This damage prevents normal insulin processing, raising blood sugar levels. For type 2 diabetes, the body becomes insulin resistant, meaning it doesn’t respond to insulin properly. The pancreas may initially produce more insulin, but over time, it fails, leading to high blood sugar.
Insulin resistance may be linked to genetics, body fat distribution, and lifestyle. When glucose isn’t used effectively, blood sugar increases, raising the risk of type 2 diabetes symptoms. Type 3c diabetes results from extensive pancreatic damage due to conditions like chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis, impairing insulin production.
If you notice diabetes symptoms or have a family history of the condition, consult your healthcare provider for testing. They’ll review your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle, and might conduct physical exams or additional tests. The two most common diabetes tests are usually employed, with possible further testing for type 1 diabetes to check for antibodies against pancreatic cells.
After a diabetes diagnosis, your healthcare provider will explain treatment options and help you manage the condition. Although diabetes can’t be cured, treatments aim to keep blood sugar levels normal. Simple dietary changes and increased physical activity can reduce insulin resistance. Some individuals with type 2 diabetes manage without medication through lifestyle adjustments.
Your healthcare provider may recommend a mix of lifestyle changes and medical treatments, including non-insulin medications and insulin therapy. If lifestyle efforts fall short, medications like Glucophage (metformin) are often prescribed first. If necessary, other oral medications or injectable options like Ozempic might be added.
For type 1 diabetes, insulin treatment is essential and involves using needles, pens, or pumps. People with advanced type 2 diabetes might also require insulin. Various insulin types are available, and your provider will help determine the best one and its dosage. Regular checkups ensure blood sugar stays within target levels.
There’s no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes, as its exact triggers remain unclear. However, diet and exercise can lower type 2 diabetes risk, especially if you have family history, central obesity, or prediabetes. Any regular physical activity helps, be it strength training, swimming, walking, or household chores. Enjoyable activities encourage consistent movement.
Dietary changes are also crucial to preventing type 2 diabetes. Although weight doesn’t solely determine health, losing some weight may improve insulin sensitivity. Studies suggest losing even a small amount can significantly reduce diabetes risk.
Diabetes complications can be serious, making management and proper treatment important. Working with healthcare professionals can guide you in making lifestyle adjustments to avoid complications. A diabetes diagnosis can be daunting, requiring significant lifestyle changes. It may seem overwhelming, but with support from your healthcare team, you can manage diabetes and lead a fulfilling life.
