Diabetes

Overview

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition that occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to elevated blood glucose (blood sugar) levels, which, over time, can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes — an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Type 2 Diabetes — the most common type, caused by insulin resistance and often linked to lifestyle factors.
Gestational Diabetes — occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth but increases future risk of type 2 diabetes.

Causes and Risk Factors

Genetic predisposition
Overweight or obesity
Physical inactivity
Unhealthy diet high in refined sugars and processed foods
Family history of diabetes
Age over 45 years (for type 2 diabetes)
History of gestational diabetes

Symptoms

Frequent urination
Excessive thirst
Unexplained weight loss
Extreme fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing wounds
Recurrent infections (e.g., skin, gums, urinary tract)

Diagnosis

Fasting Blood Glucose Test — measures blood sugar after 8 hours of fasting.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) — measures blood sugar before and after drinking a glucose solution.
HbA1c Test — shows average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months.
Random Blood Sugar Test — checks glucose levels at any time of day.

Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight
Follow a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins
Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
Avoid sugary drinks and processed snacks
Regularly monitor blood sugar if at risk

Treatment and Management

Type 1 Diabetes — insulin therapy, blood sugar monitoring, healthy eating, and exercise.
Type 2 Diabetes — lifestyle changes, oral medications, and insulin if needed.
Blood pressure and cholesterol control to reduce heart disease risk.
Foot care to prevent complications.
Regular medical check-ups.

Complications if Untreated

Heart disease and stroke
Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy)
Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy)
Vision loss (diabetic retinopathy)
Foot ulcers and amputations

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience symptoms of diabetes, have risk factors, or need guidance on managing an existing diagnosis. Early detection and proper management are key to preventing complications.