Judging by the rise in public service announcements, there has also been a rise in cases of diabetes, particularly in children. Several factors increase the risk of developing the disease: age, weight, heredity and ethnic background. However, new technology is making living with the disease much less difficult than it has been in the past.
Diabetes is classified into two different groups, type 1 and type 2, each case being caused by different factors. For example, obesity greatly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is caused by the lack of insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, which is produced by the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells that control sugar can’t manage this process naturally. When these circumstances occur, a person may experience unusual thirst, frequent urination, slow healing of infections, irregular vision, weight loss and tingling in the hands and feet.
Treatment of diabetes is different for all patients. Usually, the treatment of type 1 diabetes is controlled with daily shots of insulin. Patients also have the option to have a pump inserted into their body which automatically injects the recommended dose.
The treatment of type 2 diabetes is controlled by managing diet, physical activity and doctors may prescribe a medication to take daily to manage insulin levels.
Diabetes is a preventable disease, if you follow the proper measures. Talk to your doctor if you fear you may be at risk or visit www.diabetes.com for more information.