Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. It is a metabolic disorder that causes high blood sugar levels due to the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide a detailed understanding of diabetes, its types, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and management.

Types of Diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes:.

Type 1 Diabetes: This type of diabetes is also called insulin-dependent diabetes. It occurs when the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes typically require insulin injections or an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar levels.
Type 2 Diabetes: This type of diabetes is more common and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it. It is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled with lifestyle modifications, oral medications, or insulin injections.
Gestational Diabetes: This type of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and resolves after delivery. It can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Symptoms of Diabetes

The common symptoms of diabetes include:.

Frequent urination
Increased thirst and hunger
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Cuts or wounds that take longer to heal
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Risk Factors for Diabetes

Some of the risk factors for diabetes include:.

Family history of diabetes
Obesity or being overweight
Physical inactivity
Unhealthy diet
Age (over 45 years)
High blood pressure
High cholesterol

Diagnosis of Diabetes

The diagnosis of diabetes involves several tests, including:.

Fasting plasma glucose test
Oral glucose tolerance test
HbA1c test

A diagnosis of diabetes is made if the fasting blood sugar is 126 mg/dL or more, the oral glucose tolerance test result is 200 mg/dL or higher, or the HbA1c level is 6.5% or higher.

Treatment of Diabetes

The treatment of diabetes aims to keep blood sugar levels within a target range to prevent complications. The treatment options include:.

Lifestyle modifications such as healthy diet and regular exercise
Weight management
Oral medications that lower blood sugar levels
Insulin injections or insulin pump therapy

Management of Diabetes

The management of diabetes involves regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, following a healthy lifestyle, and taking medications as prescribed. Some tips for managing diabetes include:.