Health And Wellness
Have you ever heard of the term "silent thief of sight"? This is a term often used to describe glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can damage your vision if left untreated. But what exactly is glaucoma, and how does it affect your eyes?
The prevalence of diabetes is steadily increasing worldwide, making it extremely important for everyone to have an understanding of this chronic condition. 11.2 million Nigerians that is, 1 out of every 17 Nigerian adults are living with Diabetes.In this article, we will discuss the different types of diabetes, the symptoms, and the various treatment options available. With this information at hand, everyone can empower themselves and their loved ones to make informed decisions towards living a healthy balanced life.
Diabetes is a health condition where the sugar levels in the blood become too high. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 diabetes happens when the immune system, which is supposed to protect the body, mistakenly attacks the cells in the body that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Without enough insulin, the body can't use the sugar properly, and it builds up in the blood.
Type 2 diabetes is more common and usually happens when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't make enough of it. This can be influenced by things like the diet, activity level, and body weight.
Before a person develops Type 2 diabetes, they may have a condition called prediabetes. This means their blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is a warning sign that changes need to be made to prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, whereas Type 2 diabetes is often linked to lifestyle factors like the food we eat and how active we are.
Diabetes can cause various symptoms that indicate a problem with the blood sugar levels. It is important to note that not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and some people may not have any symptoms at all.Common symptoms of diabetes include:
You may find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, sometimes even waking up during the night for this reason. This is because the body tries to eliminate the excess sugar in the blood through urine.
With frequent urination, you may feel more thirsty than usual. This is because the body needs to replace the fluids lost through urine.
If you are losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of diabetes. This happens because the body can't effectively use the sugar in the blood for energy, so it starts breaking down fat and muscle instead.
Despite eating regularly, you may feel hungry all the time. This is because the body is not able to effectively use the sugar in the blood to provide energy to the cells.
Feeling tired and low on energy can be symptoms of diabetes. When the body is not able to properly use sugar for energy, it leads to fatigue and weakness.
Diabetes can affect the body's ability to heal wounds. Sores or cuts may take longer to heal, and you may be more prone to infections.
High blood sugar levels can affect the fluid levels in the eyes, causing blurred vision. If left untreated, this can lead to long-term vision problems.
Diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to sensations of tingling or numbness, especially in the extremities.
Gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy, can also cause symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, then you should consult a healthcare professional for proper test and management.
Not everyone with diabetes will have all these symptoms, and some may not have any symptoms at all. Regular check-ups and blood sugar tests can help detect Diabetes earlier and better manage it.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management. The goal of treatment is to keep blood sugar levels within a target range to prevent complications and maintain health. Treatment plans for diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes, individual needs, and other factors.
People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin since their body does not produce it. Insulin can be injected using a syringe, insulin pen, or an insulin pump. The dosage and timing of insulin injections are determined by healthcare professionals based on blood sugar levels and individual needs.
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels using a glucose meter is important for individuals with Type 1 diabetes. This helps them determine the appropriate insulin dose and make necessary adjustments to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Following a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the right proportions is important for managing blood sugar levels. It is also essential to limit the intake of sugary foods and beverages.
For many people with Type 2 diabetes, adopting a healthier lifestyle can help them improve blood sugar control. This includes eating a well-balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, losing weight if necessary, and quitting smoking if applicable.
In some cases, doctors may prescribe oral medications to help lower blood sugar levels. These medications work in different ways, such as stimulating insulin production, reducing insulin resistance, or slowing down the absorption of sugar in the intestines.
Some individuals with Type 2 diabetes may require injectable medications called incretin mimetics or GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications help increase insulin production, reduce appetite, and slow down stomach emptying. They are usually administered by self-injection using a pen device.
In more advanced cases or when other treatments are ineffective, insulin therapy may be necessary for individuals with Type 2 diabetes. Insulin can be prescribed in different forms, such as long-acting insulin taken once a day or short-acting insulin taken before meals, to help regulate blood sugar levels.
If diagnosed with prediabetes, one has to make lifestyle changes to prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. This includes eating a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, losing weight if necessary, limiting sugary drinks, and quitting smoking.
In addition to medical treatments and lifestyle changes, it is important for individuals with diabetes to receive ongoing education and support. Diabetes education programs can help individuals better understand their condition, learn self-management skills, and prevent complications. Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals are also important to monitor blood sugar levels, adjust treatment plans, and address any concerns.
Diabetes is a lifelong condition, but with proper treatment, self-care, and support, individuals with diabetes can live healthy lives.
In conclusion, let's consider a list of healthy foods for diabetic patients, as well as some key tips to keep the health on track.
Spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in vitamins and minerals, offering a nutrient boost without spiking blood sugar.
Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are not just tasty; they are also packed with antioxidants and fiber.
Choose whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats to provide steady energy and essential nutrients.
Chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, and legumes are excellent protein sources without excessive fat.
Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, and olive oil provide heart-healthy fats that are beneficial for people with diabetes.
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