Sunday, August 26, 2012

What Causes Diabetes, And How Is It Treated?

By Cole Mosinard


The incidence of diabetes, especially Type II Diabetes, is growing worldwide. In fact, as stated in a report by the WHO released last August 2011, there are roughly 346 million people across the globe who are diabetics. There is great reason to be worried about this pattern because alongside this is a growth in the number of deaths because of diabetes. In 2004, an estimated 3.4 million people passed away from effects of diabetes and the WHO is convinced that considering its present rate, this number will double between 2005 and 2030.

Factors That Cause Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disorder which arises either because the pancreas is unable to yield enough insulin like the case of type 1 diabetes or if the body cannot efficiently use the available insulin like in the case of Type II diabetes. Hyperglycemia during pregnancy is also likely, in such case, it is called gestational diabetes.

Symptoms of diabetes There are three principal diabetes symptoms, namely, frequent hunger pangs, excessive urination which also leads to the third symptom: disproportionate thirst. Those with diabetes are also likely to experience abrupt loss of weight, exhaustion, wounds that heal slowly, blurring of vision, as well as dry and itchy skin. In some instances, diabetes sufferers also report headaches, prickling sensation in the hands and feet and increased incidence of infections.

Consequences of diabetes Diabetes elevates your risk for heart problems and CVA or cerebrocascular accident. Also, the reduced flow of blood, neuropathy, and wounds that take time to heal in the lower limbs increases the probability of foot ulcers and probable amputation. Loss of sight as a result of retinopathy is also quite prevalent for poorly treated diabetes. This disorder has an effect on all major organs within the body, most importantly the kidneys. Basically, diabetes reduces the length and quality of one's life.

Prevention Some lifestyle changes are known to reduce the likelihood of developing diabetes. You need to have a healthy body mass by being physically active and eating a healthy diet. Experts endorse investing at least 30 minutes of regular, moderate intensity activity most days of the week, and spend more hours if you need to get rid of unwanted weight. You should also stick to a diet with reduced sugar and saturated fat intake.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The earlier it is that diabetes is identified, the better. Diagnosis can be done by means of blood testing, which is cheap. Treating diabetes would include lifestyle modifications, hypoglycemics which are taken by mouth, and in many cases, regular insulin injections. Regular checkup is also required to monitor the progress of diabetes complications such as retinopathy.




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