Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 463 million adults have diabetes as of 2019.
Diabetes is caused by high levels of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. While diabetes can strike anyone at any age, it is becoming more common among younger populations. If you are young and battling diabetes, here are some things you need to know.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects how the body processes blood glucose. Glucose is an essential source of energy that comes from the food we eat. The pancreas is an organ that releases insulin to help the body use glucose for energy.
In people with diabetes, their pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, or their body cannot use insulin properly.
Types of Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes including type 1, type 2, gestational diabetes, and prediabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce insulin at all. This type of diabetes is often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot use insulin effectively, and it is the most common type of diabetes. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after delivery. Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.
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Common Symptoms of Diabetes
The early symptoms of diabetes may be mild and easily overlooked. Some common symptoms include:.
- increased thirst
- frequent urination
- blurred vision
- fatigue
- numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- slow-healing wounds
Managing Diabetes
Managing diabetes can be challenging, but it is possible to keep diabetes under control. Here are some tips:.
- Keep track of your blood sugar levels and follow your doctor’s instructions for monitoring and controlling your diabetes.
- Eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar and carbohydrates.
- Exercise regularly to help control blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.
- Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as people with diabetes are at a higher risk for heart disease.
- Quit smoking, as smoking can increase the risk of complications from diabetes.
How to Cope with Diabetes
Living with diabetes can be challenging, both mentally and physically. Here are some tips to help you cope:.
- Join a support group or connect with others who have diabetes. Talking to others who understand what you are going through can be helpful.
- Take care of your mental health. Diabetes can be stressful, so make sure to take time for self-care and seek professional help if needed.
- Learn as much as you can about diabetes and how to manage it. Knowledge is power.
- Be kind to yourself. Diabetes can be a tough condition to deal with, so don’t be too hard on yourself.
The Bottom Line
Diabetes is a challenging disease to manage, but it is possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life while battling it. If you are young and struggling with diabetes, take heart.
With the right care and support, you can keep diabetes under control and live your life to the fullest.
