Diabetes is quite common, as there are many causes of the condition. A person with diabetes should restrict certain habits to control the spread of the disease. If diabetes becomes severe, it can hamper the normal functioning of many internal organs. However, timely treatment can help control it.
Diabetes develops when the blood glucose level goes higher than the normal value. The main source of energy is glucose and the foods that we eat. This condition occurs due to the failure of the insulin hormone. However, people can control their blood sugar levels if they undergo proper treatment for diabetes.
1. Causes
The pancreas is a mixed gland which secretes both endocrine and exocrine substances. It synthesizes the insulin hormone. The insulin hormone brings about the metabolism of glucose. If the pancreas fails to produce a sufficient amount of insulin, it results in diabetes. The metabolism of glucose stops and excessive amounts are deposited in the blood. As a result, the blood sugar level rises.
2. Symptoms
People develop diabetes because of their food habits, hormone levels, and age. However, the most common type of diabetes is Type 2, which accounts for 95% of diabetes in adults. The symptoms of this type are:
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
- Blurry vision
- Tiredness
- Increased feeling of hunger
- Longer time for healing of cuts and wounds
- Itching
- Patchy skin
- Numbness and pain in the limbs
3. Treatment for diabetes
While there are plenty of treatments available, one needs to adopt certain lifestyle changes as well. Doctors generally recommend a combination of both medications and lifestyle changes to help treat the condition. Popular treatments include:
- Medications
A few beneficial drugs which can control diabetes are Sulfonylureas, Metformin, Thiazolidinediones, DPP-4 inhibitors, and insulin injections. A doctor’s supervision is essential if one opts for medication for diabetes. - Weight loss
Weight loss can help to control blood sugar levels. It is important to maintain a healthy weight to curb the excess accumulation of glucose in the blood. - Exercises
It is extremely important to exercise regularly to maintain the normal weight of the body. - Controlling certain food habits
One should control the intake of starch-containing foods like potato, rice, mango, banana, etc. These foods increase the levels of sugar in the blood. One should also restrict the intake of sugar and salt. - Checking blood sugar level
One should keep a tab on their blood glucose level regularly. - Surgery
This is the last option when suffering from diabetes. This is recommended when a person is unable to lose weight. Bariatric surgery is beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes. - Diabetes itself isn’t harmful but the diseases associated with this condition are. Many people suffering from diabetes develop cardiac problems, stroke, foot problems, kidney disorders, and loss of vision. Thus, it is important to have appropriate treatment for diabetes.