Introduction.
One of the most severe health problems in the world today is diabetes. This chronic disease affects millions of people of all ages and can lead to other serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, and amputation.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is when the body cannot correctly use and store glucose (a form of sugar). Glucose helps in the bloodstream, leading one's blood sugar levels to rise too high. There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in children or young adults when the body doesn't produce enough insulin.
Type 2 usually occurs in adults when the body doesn't produce enough insulin or can't properly use the insulin it produces.
While many factors can contribute to the development of type 2, such as genetics and obesity, one of the most important is a lifestyle. People who are inactive and overweight are much more likely to develop type 2 than those who are physically active and maintain a healthy weight.
Signs of Diabetes.
Several different signs and symptoms can indicate the presence of diabetes. The following are the most common:
1. Urinating more often than usual, especially at night.
This is often the first sign of diabetes in children. Diabetic adults may also need to urinate more frequently, especially at night.
2. Feeling very thirsty.
As the body tries to get rid of the extra sugar in the blood, it causes dehydration and increased thirst.
3. Feeling very hungry - even though you are eating.
The body cannot convert the sugar in the blood into energy, so you may feel tired and hungry even though you are eating.
4. Blurry vision.
If diabetes is not controlled, it can damage the blood vessels in the retina (the back of the eye), causing blurry vision.
5. Slow-healing sores or cuts.
Diabetes can cause poor circulation and nerve damage, making it difficult for wounds to heal.
6. Dry, itchy skin.
Diabetes can cause the skin to become dry and itchy. It can also lead to problems in other body parts, such as the feet and hands.
7. Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.
Diabetes can damage the nerves, which can cause a tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
8. Frequent infections.
Diabetes can weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infection.
If you have any of these signs or symptoms, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes can help prevent some of the severe health complications associated with the disease.
Preventing Diabetes.
You can do several things to help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. Here are some tips:
1. Maintain a healthy weight.
Being overweight is one of the most critical risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Work with your doctor to find a healthy weight for you.
2. Be physically active every day.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week. Moderate exercise includes walking, biking, or lawn work. You can also do two 15-minute sessions of vigorous activity, such as running or swimming.
3. Eat a healthy diet.
Choose foods that are low in fat and calories and high in fiber. Good choices include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans. Also, limit sugar and sugary drinks.
4. Get regular health screenings.
If you have diabetes, get regular medical checkups and screenings for complications, such as diabetic retinopathy (eye problems). If you don't have diabetes, talk to your doctor about whether you should be screened for the disease.
5. Don't smoke.
Smoking increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and can also lead to other health problems. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit.
Following these tips can help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Conclusion.
Diabetes is a severe disease that can lead to some complications. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the disease. Maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and eating a healthy diet are all important ways to prevent diabetes. If you have any signs or symptoms of diabetes, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid some of the severe health complications associated with the disease.
Warning: Some symptoms of diabetes are not obvious, so we recommend that you do not self-diagnose the disease at home. Please consult a specialist or doctor in case of any health-related problems.