Learn all about living with diabetes 

Hafiz Shaikh from Nash24x7 shared that Diabetes happens to those whose blood glucose, also known as blood sugar goes high. The foods we eat form glucose, which is one of the main sources of energy. Insulin is responsible for transferring the glucose from our food to our cells. Sometimes, when the body does not produce enough insulin, the glucose remains in the blood. Over time, this leads to health problems. You should know that there is no cure for diabetes. But it can be taken care of with the right medication. Neglecting the issue can only worsen the disease. Therefore, it is vital that you follow the recommendation of your medical practitioner in order to lead a healthy life.

Some diabetes symptoms are seen in women and men

As we know, diabetes is caused by elevated levels of blood glucose. The signs do not vary when it comes to a particular gender. Men and women are known to experience similar symptoms.

There are two types of Diabetes: type 1 and 2 of which type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas that is responsible to produce insulin fails to produce adequate amounts. Type 1 diabetes is commonly found during childhood while, type 2 diabetes usually found among adults. Following are some symptoms of diabetes that are common in both men and women:

• Increased hunger
• Extreme thirst
• Regular or rather frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

For men, they may experience sexual problems like erectile dysfunction, retrograde ejaculation, and low testosterone. Whereas women may face an increased risk for vaginal yeast infections, vaginal dryness and lower sensation, less sex drive, and a higher risk of contracting urinary tract infections (UTIs).

If not kept under control, in the long term, complications due to diabetes could lead to issues such as nerve damage, difficulties in vision, kidney damage, and an increased risk of heart disease, vascular disease, and stroke. These complications are common for both men and women.

How Many Types of Diabetes are there?

Like we mentioned earlier, there are 2 types of diabetes, categorized as type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is commonly seen in children and type 2 is seen in adults. Type 2 is the common form of diabetes found in most people around the world. Let’s delve a little deeper into what these types are.

Type 1 Diabetes

Firstly, it is a less-common form of diabetes. Why does it occur? Because the body’s immune system starts attacking the cells of the pancreas that are responsible to produce insulin. This results in an insufficient amount of insulin production. How is it treated? Well, treatment for this type of diabetes requires the administration of insulin in the form of an injection.

Type 2 Diabetes

This is the more common form of diabetes that is diagnosed among the masses. About 85% of those suffering from diabetes are due to type 2. Though this is more common in adults, lately children have also been encountering type 2 diabetes due to dietary factors and an increase in childhood obesity. Why does it occur? It is because the body becomes resistant to the insulin that the pancreas produces. Following a proper diet and making certain healthy lifestyle choices are recommended to battle type 2 diabetes. If necessary, patients are asked to take medication too.

For those who suffer from obesity, there is a higher risk of being a victim of diabetes. Numerous studies have proven this and hence, treating obesity should be of utmost importance. Family history, sedentary lifestyle, consuming high amounts of sugar and carbs are among other problems that can lead to type 2 diabetes.

Prediabetes

What is Prediabetes? It is a condition wherein the blood glucose levels are high, but not that high to be classified as diabetes. Nevertheless, it is a risk factor as it could lead to type 2 diabetes.

Understanding the condition is vital in order to lead a healthy life. The medical practitioner will determine the treatment plan as per the condition you suffer from. Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes but, with the right medication, it is kept under control for patients.

Suggested first-line treatment for diabetes by experts

Studies suggest that the first line of treatment for type 2 diabetes should be Metformin. Since this drug is the one that does not cause weight gain, it clearly is an advantage to the patient. Insulin and sulfonylureas are recommended as the second-line treatment whereas glitazones is reserved for third-line treatment. In the case of type 1 diabetes, Insulin injected subcutaneously is the first-line treatment that is recommended by professionals.

Are stress and anxiety a cause for diabetes?

Studies are still underway to determine if stress and anxiety can increase the risk of diabetes. But there is evidence that suggests that stress can be linked to type 2 diabetes. In general, stress can cause a lot of health problems. This is why it is recommended that you lower stress levels by doing things that keep your mind off difficult situations. According to eminent researchers, high levels of stress hormones can contribute to the prevention of insulin-producing cells.

Sometimes, people tend to overeat when they are stressed. This could lead to excessive weight gain and in turn lead to diabetes. Hence, it is of utmost importance that you eat well, sleep well and exercise daily for the sake of your mental well-being.

NASH 24X7 is a digital platform to help bring about awareness about Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (Nafld)

Title: Living with diabetes and how it affects life

Description: Living with diabetes is not easy especially knowing that there is no cure. But, ensuring a lifestyle change can go a long way in being healthy.