Diabetes is a disorder that affects the metabolic status of the body with regard to glucose blood sugar levels. When these levels are high, the body begins to respond in a negative manner, causing fatigue, headaches and overall changes that cause pain, disorientation and sickness. Since insulin is the hormone that breaks down glucose, diabetes involves the body’s inability to properly utilize or produce enough insulin. It is very important to treat diabetes in its early stages because ignoring the symptoms can lead to complications, such as blindness and limb amputation.

Cause & Trend

Due to an increasingly unhealthy way of life, more and more people residing in the United States are dealing with a disease known to spiral into a life-threatening condition. Many individuals will suffer from the symptoms of diabetes throughout the year and won’t even know it. One of the scariest trends regarding this medical menace is that it now strikes a considerable number of children at a young age. About 5% to 10% of all diabetic cases will exhibit Type 1 characteristics, whereas the most common and difficult form to deal with pertaining to the disease is Type 2.

Symptoms

The main symptoms regarding Type 1 diabetes may develop over the course of a few days to weeks. Increased thirst, weight loss and increased urination are just some of the common signs. It is not uncommon to see people ignore Type 1 diabetes symptoms because it is rather hard to identify the signs as needing medical attention.

With Type 2 diabetes symptoms, one may feel thirsty, frequently urinate, display an increased appetite, feel very tired, appear irritable and lose weight without trying. More serious signs of Type 2 diabetes include blurred vision, increased number of infections, numbness in hands or feet, as well as slow-healing wounds.

Treatment Options

Both types of diabetes call for a different course of action. Type 1 diabetes requires a lifelong commitment to treatment, as keeping blood sugar levels within an acceptable range will decrease the threat of developing life-threatening complications. Insulin injections or an insulin pump are used alongside a home blood-monitoring meter. Eating a balanced diet throughout the day and paying close attention to carbohydrates is also important. Regular exercise and medical checkups are also a must.

Type 2 diabetes is a bit easier to swallow in terms of treatment options. Blood glucose levels can be controlled through sticking to a healthy meal and exercise program, as well as shedding extra pounds. Oral medication, such as Glucophage, helps to establish a balance of glucose in the body.

Prevention Tips

While there is no way to cheat the onset of Type 1 diabetes, there are a handful of ways to make sure Type 2 diabetes is less likely to strike. Individuals who significantly lower their chances for the disease are those who follow a healthier path in life. The following is suggested: maintaining a healthy weight, exercise regularly and eating healthy foods. For some, avoiding diabetes is quite hard, since heredity poses a strong threat. The best way to deal with the situation is to follow prevention tips and control the disease if you should notice the signs and symptoms.