Managing your health is important

Diabetes. How many times have you heard, “I have diabetes,” whether from a friend, relative or from a casual conversation with a neighbor? We all know someone with diabetes. Per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is estimated that 37.3 million people in the US have diabetes, and another 8.6 million have yet to be diagnosed. Diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate and impacts all social, economic and ethnic backgrounds. But what exactly is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body processes sugar (glucose), a crucial source of energy. Understanding diabetes is important, as it can help you recognize its symptoms, manage the condition effectively and avoid potential complications.

There are two main types of diabetes:

Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter cells. This type usually develops in children and young adults, which is why it is often referred to as “juvenile diabetes.” People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes is the more common form, often developing in adults, although it is increasingly being seen in children and teenagers due to rising obesity rates. In Type 2 diabetes, the body either does not use insulin effectively (insulin resistance) or does not produce enough insulin. Lifestyle factors, such as poor diet and lack of exercise, play a significant role in its development.

Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1), and slowhealing sores or frequent bacterial or fungal infections. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to consult a health care professional for testing.

Managing diabetes includes regularly monitoring blood sugar levels to understand how food, execise and medications affect glucose levels. A balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats can help manage blood sugar. Regular physical activity is crucial for controlling weight, lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. Depending on the type of diabetes, medications may include insulin injections or oral medications that help manage blood sugar.

If diabetes is not well-managed, it can lead to several serious complications. Cardiovascular disease is one risk, as diabetes increases the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy) can occur over time as high blood sugar harms the kidneys’ filtering system, potentially leading to kidney disease or even failure. Additionally, high blood sugar can injure nerves throughout the body, often starting in the legs and feet, leading to pain, tingling or loss of sensation (diabetic neuropathy). Eye damage (diabetic retinopathy) can occur as diabetes damages the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision loss or blindness. Foot complications, including infections, ulcers, and, in severe cases, amputation, can arise from nerve damage and poor circulation. People with diabetes are also more prone to skin conditions like infections, itching and dry skin. Finally, living with diabetes can lead to mental health issues, including stress, anxiety and depression; thus, mental health support is crucial.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then the goal is to prevent complications. Therefore, keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range is essential. Routine medical check-ups can help monitor blood sugar and detect potential complications early. Educating yourself about diabetes empowers you to make better health choices. Staying active through regular physical activity helps control blood sugar and reduces the risk of complications. And managing stress can have an impact as well.

In conclusion, understanding diabetes is key to managing this condition effectively and preventing complications.

Knowledge is your best tool, whether you or a loved one is affected. By making informed choices about diet, exercise and monitoring blood sugar, you can lead a healthy life despite diabetes. If you suspect you have diabetes or are experiencing symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice, as early intervention can significantly impact your health journey.

Tamy Webb, DHSc, PA-C, assistant professor, Physician Assistant Program, the School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport.