Understanding Diabetes: Types, Risks, and Symptoms
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Diabetes is a chronic disease that pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use insulin it produces.
In order to better understand the disease, we need to learn what insulin does. Insulin is a blood hormone that regulates the blood sugar. You can think of insulin as a key to open cell doors. When key and lock fits and there is enough key for enough locks, everything works. But if there are some complications during the production of Insulin, this can be the cause of diabetes.
Although the exact causes of diabetes are unknown, but it can occur when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
Diabetes is classified as Type 1, 2 and Gestational diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the cause is likely related to genes and it is hereditary. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body stops using insulin properly. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood glucose levels. Cystic fibrosis can also cause diabetes because it affects the production of beta-cells, which secrete insulin, in the bone marrow.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes occurs in juveniles, and it is characterized by deficient insulin production and requires daily insulin intake. The causes of it unknown to mankind probably gene-related and it is hereditary.
Despite active research, type 1 diabetes has no cure. However, it can be managed. With proper treatment, people who have type 1 diabetes can expect to live longer, healthier lives than in the past.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, where the body doesn’t produce insulin, in Type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin, or it resists insulin. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, hunger, fatigue, and blurred vision. In some cases, there may be no symptoms. Healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent Type 2 diabetes, and it can be managed with diet and exercise, and medication if necessary.
However, new research from Korea, brought new insights. Researchers analyzed data from over 37,000 individuals with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes in Hong Kong. They found that only 6% of participants achieved diabetes remission over a median follow-up of 8 years. However, among those who did achieve remission, 67% experienced a return to high blood sugar levels within a median follow-up of 3 years. Individuals who experienced greater weight loss within the first year after diabetes diagnosis were more likely to achieve remission and had a lower risk of relapse compared to those who gained weight. The research shows that there might be more than meets the eye, weight reduction only maybe is not the only solution for type 2 diabetes.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. This occurs with high blood glucose above normal values but below of diagnostic of diabetes.
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was historically defined as any level of glucose intolerance detected during pregnancy, but this definition has limitations. Evidence suggests that many GDM cases reflect pre-existing hyperglycemia. With rising obesity and diabetes rates, more pregnant individuals have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Ideally, individuals at risk should be screened before pregnancy to improve outcomes. Early universal screening before 15 weeks of gestation may be considered, particularly in high-risk populations with disparities in diabetes prevalence. Standard diagnostic criteria for diabetes apply in early pregnancy.
Impaired Glucose Tolerance and Impaired Fasting Glycaemia
Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) and Impaired Fasting Glycaemia (IFG) are conditions that are seen as precursors to the development of type 2 diabetes. They are characterized by blood sugar levels that are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes.
IGT is diagnosed when blood sugar levels are high after a meal but are normal when fasting. On the other hand, IFG is diagnosed when fasting blood sugar levels are high but return to normal after a meal. Both conditions indicate a developing insulin resistance and can progress to type 2 diabetes if not managed properly.
Diabetes, along with other health risks, can induce other types of sickness.
Diabetes Related Foot Ulceration
Diabetes-related foot ulceration (DFU) imposes a significant burden on healthcare systems and individuals due to its financial costs and impact on morbidity and mortality. Since 1999, the International Working Group of the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) has regularly issued guidelines every four years covering various aspects of diabetic foot disease management. In 2008, the first edition focusing on interventions to improve healing of chronic foot ulcers in people with diabetes was published, with subsequent updates in 2011, 2015, and 2019.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while achieving long-term remission from type 2 diabetes remains challenging, early intervention through weight management strategies is crucial for improving outcomes. Researchers and other findings emphasize the need for personalized approaches and ongoing support in diabetes care. Further research is necessary to refine clinical practices and explore new treatment options. By adopting comprehensive strategies and prioritizing prevention, we can work towards making diabetes remission a feasible goal for all individuals affected by this condition, ultimately enhancing overall health and well-being.
