Diabetes: Symptoms, Type, Causes & Treatment

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition that leads to an increase in high blood sugar. The hormone insulin is responsible for carrying glucose from the blood to the body cells, which are used or used as a form of energy. When the body fails to produce enough insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin hormone, it leads to diabetes. When unaddressed, it leads to several conditions such as damage to the heart, kidneys and eyes.

Diabetes can affect people of all age groups. There are different forms of diabetes, among which Type 2 is the most common one.

Patients with diabetes need to manage the condition effectively to live a healthy life and prevent developing serious complications.

How Prevalent Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is very common and affects millions of people worldwide. According to the reports of the World Health Organisation (WHO), in India, there are an estimated 77 million people above the age of 18 years who are suffering from diabetes (type 2) and nearly 25 million are prediabetics (at a higher risk of developing diabetes in near future). Moreover, more than 50% of the individuals are not even aware of their diabetic status.

Indications That You Are Diabetic

Here are some of the common symptoms as stated by a diabetes doctor in Kolkata indicating that you might have diabetes.

• Increased thirst and dry mouth.
• Frequent urination.
• Fatigue.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Blurred vision.
• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet.
• Frequent skin or vaginal yeast infections.
• Slow-healing of wounds
• Extreme hunger

If you are experiencing these signs, consult your healthcare provider and get your blood sugar level checked.

Types Of Diabetes

Here are the most common types of diabetes that most individuals generally get detected with, as suggested by a diabetes doctor in Kolkata.

• Type 1 diabetes: It is an autoimmune lifelong condition that prevents the pancreas from making insulin. It requires daily management.
• Type 2 Diabetes: It happens when the body cannot produce enough insulin and as a result sugar gets build up in the blood.
• Gestational diabetes: It develops during pregnancy when the body fails to make enough enough, It generally goes away after childbirth but increases the risk of developing Type 2 later in life.

Causes of Diabetes

The exact cause of diabetes depends upon its cause. But here are the contributing factors.

• Genetics
• Pancreatic damage either by surgery or injury
• Autoimmune disease
• Age
• Poor lifestyle choices
• Hormonal imbalances

Treatment And Management Of Diabetes

Treatment of diabetes is highly individualised because the disease affects individuals differently. Here are common approaches.

• Oral medications: It is mainly prescribed to patients with type 2 and gestational patients.
• Insulin injection: Patients with Type 2 require insulin shots according to their needs.
• Dietary and lifestyle modifications: It is a must for all patients. Healthy eating habits and exercise are extremely important approaches to diabetes management.

Conclusion

Being diagnosed with diabetes means taking constant and diligent care of your health. Make sure you consult an experienced diabetes doctor in Kolkata and monitor your Blood sugar levels to ensure that they stay within the normal range.