If you’re not diagnosed with diabetes, you probably know someone who is. Read on to find out some important info about diabetes.
Do I Have Diabetes?
The only way to know if you have diabetes is by going to a doctor and performing tests that can help spot the disease. If you haven’t been diagnosed with diabetes, you may get an idea of your risk to have this condition by using an online diabetes risk calculator.
Diabetes – Definition
Diabetes is also known as diabetes mellitus. It’s a condition that prevents your body from properly using glucose because of a problem with insulin.
Types of Diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is further categorized into types – ‘type 1 diabetes’ and ‘type 2 diabetes’. Both types prevent cells from effectively using glucose. The main difference between type 1 and type 2 is where the problem with insulin begins. In type 1, insulin isn’t produced. With type 2, insulin is produced but it eventually stops working the way it should. This is referred to as ‘insulin resistance’.
Diabetes Symptoms
People with type 1 and type 2 diabetes can experience similar problems like-
-Frequent Urination
-Blurry Vision
-Excessive Thirst
-Numbness
-Hunger
-Weight Loss or Weight Gain
-Nausea & Abdominal Pain
-Generalized Weakness
Such symptoms may occur quickly and dramatically in people with type 1 diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes may have milder symptoms that develop gradually and may not be very noticeable.
What Causes Diabetes?
Obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, and certain genetics create a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Certain types of medications may also lead to higher sugars and the development of the disease.
Here are the main causes of both diabetes-
Cause of Type 1 Diabetes
-Problems with your immune system
Risks for Type 2 Diabetes
-Obesity
-Medications
-Pregnancy
-Unhealthy diet
-Genetics
-Low levels of physical activity
