Diabetes

What Is It?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which the body cannot successfully convert sugar into energy for tissue and organ cells. A person with diabetes will have abnormally high levels of blood sugar, especially after consuming starchy foods like rice, potatoes, and bread. Diabetes can affect both men and women at any age. Even children can develop cases of diabetes. There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and type 3.

Types

Type 1 diabetes occurs as a result of an autoimmune condition. The pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin, and as a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. It is unknown what causes type 1 diabetes.

Genetics, viruses, and autoimmune conditions can cause type 1 diabetes to occur. With type 2 diabetes, a person's fat, liver, and muscle tissue do not respond properly to insulin. As a result, the pancreas produces more and more insulin while sugar builds up in the blood at the same time. Type 2 diabetes is related to genetics, diet, exercise, and obesity. Type 3 diabetes occurs when the brain signals insulin production to stop, resulting in damage to the brain cells and central nervous system.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

The most common symptoms are frequent urination, increased thirst, and increased fluid intake. Other symptoms include blurred vision, feelings of irritability, severe fatigue, unexpected weight loss, feelings of extreme hunger, irritation of the skin in the genital area, and slower healing of superficial wounds. Weight loss tends to be seen most commonly with Type 1 diabetes. Unlike type 1 diabetes, the symptoms for type 2 diabetes develop very slowly.

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause of diabetes is unclear, but several risk factors are evident. People are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes if they eat a diet that is high in fat, are overweight, or have a family history of diabetes. Age is also a risk factor.

Prevention & Treatment

Patients can prevent type 2 diabetes by following a well balanced diet and by maintaining a regular exercise routine. Patients of type 1 diabetes may need to take insulin injections. Treatment may also be necessary for complications including heart problems, kidney failure, pancreas problems, and infections.

Tests & Diagnosis

A urinalysis is the first level of testing and can show glucose levels in addition to how fat is broken down. Blood glucose tests (fasting and non-fasting) can provide a more detailed breakdown of whether the person has diabetes.