Diabetes is a major health concern in this country. Seven percent of our population currently has diabetes and it is estimated that another 41 million people have pre diabetes. This is a condition that over time can lead to type II diabetes. It is estimated that another 6 million people are affected by this disease that are not aware of it. So with these statistics you can see why it is such a major health problem.
What is the Definition of Diabetes
Glucose in the blood gives us the energy that we need to do such physical activities such as walking, running riding a bicycle and many other everyday activities. Diabetes is when our bodies can not regulate the amount of sugar in our blood, especially glucose.
Our livers produce blood glucose when we eat food. Glucose is regulated by several hormones, insulin being one of them. The pancreas produces insulin along with other important enzymes that help us digest the food that we consume. Insulin is the vehicle that allows glucose to move from the blood into the liver, muscles and fat cells where it is used as fuel.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when a person does not produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is a situation where a person produces enough insulin, but can not use it properly. In some forms of the disease people can have both of these conditions. It is more common though to have one or the other. The main problem here is that glucose can not move from the blood into the cells and tissues that need it for energy. High levels of glucose in the blood can cause damage to other tissues and organs.
There Can Be Serious Complications from Diabetes
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes lead to high blood sugar levels which is called hyperglycemia. If left untreated, over time this condition will lead to serious medical problems. The leading cause of blindness in people that have the disease is damage that can occur to the retina. It can also cause kidney failure and damage to the nerves. The leading cause of foot wounds and ulcers that can result in amputation is when nerves are damaged.
Other complications of nerve damage can be paralysis of the stomach, called gastroparesis, chronic diarrhea, and an inability to control heart rate and blood pressure during postural movement.
Another condition that can be caused by diabetes is atherosclerosis which is when fatty plaque forms on the inside of artery walls. This can decrease circulation to the legs and feet as well as being a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.
There are some short term medical problems that are also associated with diabetes. Infections being one of them. The disease can hinder a person’s ability to fight off infections. This is made worse by the fact that an infection can worsen glucose control, which further delays recovery.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is usually picked up during childhood or adolescence. Normally it is seen during other medical examinations or when there is a sickness or injury. The extra stress caused by diabetes can also lead to a condition called ketoacidosis which is characterized by nausea and vomiting along with dehydration. It can also affect potassium levels in the blood. If ketoacidosis is left untreated it can lead to death.
Type 2 diabetes is often more subtle and is usually associated with aging or obesity. This is a condition that can persist for years without one being aware of it. If it is left untreated it can lead to complications such as nerve damage, blindness, heart disease and kidney failure.
Some of the more common symptoms associated with both forms of diabetes are fatigue, unexplained weight loss, thirst, and excessive urination. Other symptoms can include excessive eating, open wounds that do not heal properly, infections, blurry vision and a noticeable change in mental status.
To conclude, diabetes can be a serious and life threatening disease. This is true for both forms of diabetes. Once you have an understanding of the disease and some of it’s symptoms you will be better equipped to seek medical attention if yourself or any of your family members are experiencing one or more of its symptoms.
Author Resource:
John Bradstreet is an experienced Biochemist with extensive knowledge in nutritional supplementation. He is committed to a healthy lifestyle through natural means. To learn more about diabetes and its symptoms you can visit ’ http://worldvitaminsonline.com/bloodsugarformula60capsules.aspx And follow the links at the bottom of the page. You can also follow our Vitamin and Supplement blog at ’ http://worldvitaminsonline.blogspot.com/
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