Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal. 1 in 9 adults between 20–79 years have diabetes. 4 in 10 adults are unaware that they have diabetes.
Every individual should know these 3 major types of diabetes:
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Type 1 – It is an autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin.
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Type 2 – It involves insulin resistance, wherein the cells do not use insulin properly.
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Prediabetes – It is a warning stage wherein blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.
Symptoms
• Increased urination (Polyuria)
• Increased thirst (Polydipsia)
• Increased hunger (Polyphagia)
• Weakness and tiredness
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss
Risk Factors That Predispose to Diabetes
• Obesity
• Age 45 or older
• Family history
• Race/ethnicity
• Lack of physical activity
How to Manage Diabetes
• Blood sugar monitoring – using CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor)
• Healthy diet habits – carbohydrate counting and a fibre-rich diet
• Regular physical activity
• Adherence to prescribed medicines
Complications a Diabetes Patient Should Know About
• Low blood sugar – Hypoglycaemia
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Diabetic nephropathy
• Heart attack and stroke
• Proper foot care – check feet daily to prevent wounds
Diabetes is a chronic, serious, yet manageable condition. Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable and is manageable through lifestyle changes, eating healthy, and physical activity. Untreated diabetes can cause complications, which makes early detection and monitoring crucial
You educate your patients about diabetes but when did you last check your own blood sugar?