Diabetes Mellitus A Silent Threat

Diabetes Mellitus A Silent Threat

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. When you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t¹ produce enough insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin it does produce. Insulin is a hormone that helps² glucose (sugar) from food get into your cells to be used for energy.

Types of Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
2. Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form of diabetes, often associated with lifestyle factors like obesity and physical inactivity.

Symptoms of Diabetes

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
• Extreme hunger
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing sores
• Fatigue

Complications of Diabetes

If not managed properly, diabetes can lead to serious health complications, including:

• Heart Disease and Stroke: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Kidney Disease: Diabetes can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney failure.
• Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): High blood sugar can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling, and pain.
• Eye Damage: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems.
• Foot Problems: Nerve damage and poor blood flow can lead to foot ulcers and infections.

Managing Diabetes

To manage diabetes, it’s important to:

• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly check your blood sugar levels to ensure they are within a healthy range.
• Healthy Eating: Follow a balanced diet that is low in sugar and high in fiber.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Medications: Take prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
• Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your diabetes and overall health.

By managing diabetes effectively, you can reduce the risk of complications and live a healthy life.