Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces . Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose.Hypergylcemia ,also called raised blood glucose or raised blood sugar ,is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body system especially the nerves and blood vessels.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of diabetes may occur suddenly.In type 2 diabetes ,the symptoms can be mild and may take many years to be noticed;
#Feeling very thirsty
#Needing to urinate more often than usual.
#Feeling tired
#losing weight unintentionally.
Over time, diabetes can damage blood vessels in the heart ,eyes ,kidney and nerves . People with diabetes have a higher risk of health problems including heart attack,stroke and kidney failure . Diabetes can cause permanent vision loss by damaging blood vessels in the eyes .Many people with diabetes develop problem with their feet from nerve damage and poor blood flow.This can cause foot ulcers and may lead to amputation.
TYPE 1 DIABETES
Previously known as insulin- dependent
Juvenile or childhood onset is characterized by defient insulin production and requires daily administration of insulin.
TYPE 2 DIABETES
It affects how your body uses sugar (glucose )for energy.It stops the body from using insulin properly,which can lead to high levels of blood sugar if not treated.
Factors that can contribute to developing type 2 diabetes include; Overweight,not getting enough exercise and genetics .
Type 2 diabetes was formelly called non – insulin dependent or adults onset.
GESTATIONAL DIABETES
This is hyperglycemia with blood glucose values above normal but below those diagnostic of diabetes .It occurs in pregnancy.
PREVENTION
1.Reach and keep a healthy body weight
2.Stay physically active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week
3 Eat a healthy diet and avoid sugar and saturated fat .
4.Do not smoke tobacco
People with type 1 diabetes need insulin injection for survival .
Diabetes type 2 need to take medication and insulin injection.
