The onset of diabetes is mainly caused by insulin-related issues in the body. Since insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating the metabolism of carbohydrate and fat stored in the body by causing cells to use up glucose in the blood, not enough of which will lead to high blood sugar which will then cause observable complications. These two insulin-related issues happen when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or when cells are unable to respond to this insulin naturally produced inside the body.
This set of related diseases known as diabetes mellitus, or more commonly just diabetes, is even worsened by the kind of sugar-rich diet the modern food industries had to offer. In the first decade of the 21st century, over 170 million people are suffering from diabetes. The incidence of this disease all over the world is increasing rapidly. If this rate of incidence is going to continue in the succeeding years, then the number of diabetic patients is expected to double by 2030.
Symptoms of diabetes
Increased frequency of urination, recurring thirst, and increased hunger are the three classical symptoms of diabetes. More formally, these three symptoms are known, respectively, as polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. All these signs are the effects of high levels of sugar in the bloodstream brough about by insufficient insulin.
As diabetes progresses, another group of signs and symptoms related to this set of diseases can be classified depending upon the system on which it attacks. In the respiratory system, hyperventilation is likely observed. Along the gastric tracks, incidence of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain will be apparent. Prolonged high levels of glucose in the blood will eventually lead to changes to the lenses of the eyes. This change in shape results to blurred vision. Most users will have to have daily insulin injection, which they can obtain either online, from their local pharmacist, or through mail order diabetic supplies companies.
The Three Main Types Of Diabetes
Diabetes is classified into three types depending upon how the body handles insulin. The three classifications are Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. The first type directly results from insufficient insulin in the body; thus, it is also referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). The second type occurs when cells do not respond to the produced insulin. This type is also referred to as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Finally, the gestational type happens during pregnancy when there are high levels of glucose in the blood.
Treatment and prevention of the metabolic disease
To prevent the onset or to regulate the effects of diabetes, certain measures have to be followed depending on the type of disease the patient is suffering from. Type 2 diabetes is primarily the effect of lifestyle and genetics that would promote the onset of diabetes. Hence, this type is best managed by keeping blood sugar levels normal. With adequate exercise combined with healthy and controlled diet, the harmful effects of this disease will be regulated successfully.
Type 1 diabetes, on the other hand, is inherited and can be triggered by particular infections. This chronic type is managed by insulin therapy. Type 2 as well is also regulated through insulin dosages. In conclusion, it is always important to consult a health professional to avoid further complications arising from diabetes.