Diabetes types
There are two types of diabetes: Type I and Type II. Type I is known as juvenile or insulin dependent diabetes and it occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin. Type II, which is also called adult onset diabetes, occurs when the body’s cells become resistant to the action of insulin.
What is Insulin and how it is involved in Diabetes?
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels in the body. Insulin is released into the bloodstream when the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood rises. In people with diabetes, this release of insulin does not occur or is not effective.
In people with Type I diabetes, the pancreas produces no or very little insulin. In people with Type II diabetes, the body cells become resistant to the effects of insulin. This causes the cells to be less sensitive to the effect of insulin and so they do not respond to it effectively. The result is that blood sugar levels remain high even though there is an increased amount of insulin in the bloodstream.
Causes of Diabetes
The cause of diabetes is unknown. It is thought that genetics plays a role but other factors may also contribute. Diabetes can be hereditary.
It is important to remember that diabetes is a chronic disease. It can affect anyone at any age. However, it is more common in adults over 40 years old. People who have Type I diabetes must take insulin injections daily for the rest of their lives.
Consequences of Blood Sugar disorder
There are many complications associated with diabetes. These include heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, nerve damage, foot problems, and infection.
Options to deal with Diabetes.
If you have diabetes, you should be aware of your blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar is too high, you will need to eat something sweet or go to the bathroom. This will help bring your blood sugar down.
You should also check your blood sugar regularly. Your doctor may give you a glucometer (blood sugar test meter). You should know how to use it. This is important because you will need to check your blood sugar at home.
A person with diabetes should always carry sugar or glucose tablets with them. It is important to remember that if you are diabetic, you must never skip meals. Skipping meals can lead to low blood sugar. This can cause symptoms such as sweating, shaking, confusion, and hunger.
