Diabetes: Know the types and symptoms. See how to care!

Diabetes: Know the types and symptoms. See how to take care and not be part of the statistics! Have you ever wondered why diabetes has become a global epidemic? Know that every 17 seconds, a person is diagnosed with this condition in the world. In other words, by the end of reading this article, dozens of lives will have already been affected by this chronic disease. It is estimated that more than 460 million individuals suffer from the condition.

Diabetes is caused by high glucose levels in the blood, which is due to defects in the secretion or action of the hormone called insulin. When insulin is absent or there is even a defect in its activity, blood sugar levels tend to increase. In large part, diabetes is due to lifestyle, where an inadequate diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, etc., can be risk factors.

So, in this article we will explore everything about diabetes and you will discover how you can make a difference. Check it out below!

Types of diabetes

Diabetes: Know the types and symptoms. See how to care!

Diabetes is a metabolic disease whose main characteristic is high blood sugar levels. This condition is classified as type 1 and type 2, but it is worth mentioning that there is also gestational diabetes, type MODY (less common) and pre-diabetes. Learn a little more about each type:

Type 1

Type 1 occurs in less than 10% of cases, and is caused by reduction or lack of insulin production. This type of diabetes tends to appear more frequently in childhood and adolescence. However, it can appear at any stage of life. Sufferers require daily insulin injections to maintain normal blood glucose levels.

Type 2

Type 2 cases are much more common, where the bodydevelops resistance to the action of insulin. Unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 can be avoided, as in most cases it is directly related to the individual’s lifestyle. Depending on the severity of the disease, it can be controlled with dietary planning or physical activity. In other cases, it is necessary to use insulin injections and other appropriate medications to control glucose.

Gestational

In this case, this type is characterized by glycemic changes that appear during pregnancy. Early diagnosis is essential, which is why every pregnant woman should take a test to assess the behavior of her blood sugar.

Type MODY

This type of diabetes is much less known than the others. It is characterized by specific genetic changes, which cause impairment of glycemic homeostasis, such as failure to recognize high blood glucose or low insulin production. Diagnosis is usually made through genetic testing.

Pre-diabetes

Pre-diabetes is considered an intermediate point between a healthy condition and type 2 diabetes. In this case, glucose levels are higher than normal, but still do not constitute type 2. Therefore, it is a clinical condition that requires care and attention so that it does not actually become a disease.

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes

Normally, it does not present any apparent symptoms, however in some cases it may present:

• Dry mouth;
• Urge to urinate frequently;
• Constant thirst;
• Weight loss for no apparent reason;
• Wounds that take a long time to heal;
• Tingling in legs and feet;
• Nail fungus.

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes

As with type 1, there are no symptoms. Unless the glucose values ​​are higher, around 200 to 250mg/dL. If this happens, the individual may experience increased appetite, extreme fatigue, constant thirst, blurred vision, irritability, weight loss, repeated fungal infections, among others.

Treatment

Normally, for both type 1 and 2, doctors recommend the use of anti-diabetic medications which have the function of reducing blood sugar levels. It is also recommended to adopt a diet with a nutritionist, who will make adjustments to the amount of calories and glucose that should be ingested daily.

Is there a cure for diabetes?

Even with so many technological advances and studies carried out, to date, a definitive cure has not yet been found for this disease that affects so many people worldwide.

10 tips to prevent type 2 diabetes

Diabetes: Know the types and symptoms. See how to care!

As we saw previously, it is possible to prevent type 2 diabetes by adoptingnew healthy habits. Here are some easy tips that can help with prevention:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight is an important risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Try to maintain a healthy weight by opting for a balanced diet.
• Healthy eating: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins in your daily meals. Also, avoid processed foods, rich in sugar and saturated fats.
• Portion control: Avoid excess calories. Control your portion sizes at each meal and avoid eating until you are very full.
• Avoid sugary drinks:Soft drinks, processed fruit juices and other sugary drinks can increase your risk of diabetes. Prefer to drink water or unsweetened teas.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and maintain a healthy weight. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Sleep well: Lack of sleep can affect metabolism and increase the risk of diabetes. Try to have a regular, quality sleep routine.
• Reduce stress levels: Chronic stress can affect blood sugar levels. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water regularly is essential for controlling blood sugar levels.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking is associated with a greater risk of developing diabetes.
• Get regular check-ups: See your doctor regularly to check your blood sugar levels and other risk factors. Early diagnosis can help with prevention and treatment.

Remember, the Symptoms can be subtle, but it’s important to be aware of them, especially if you’re at risk. Therefore, taking care of your health is essential to avoid being part of the alarming statistics of diabetes.