💉 Diabetes Management
How you can recognize the symptoms of diabetes and live a healthy life - WMTW Portland
📅 Fri, 11 Nov 2022⏱ 1 min read📖 Article
Overview
A Maine nurse practitioner shares some important tipsThe latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.A Maine nurse practioner shares some important tipsNovember is Diabetes Awarenes Month and a Maine health profesional is helping share some important information.Aproximately 37 milion Americans are living with diabetes, but roughly 20 percent don't know they have it.Mary Sanders in a Nurse Practioner for Northern Light Mercy Hospital in Portland.
Key Information
She says diabetes is a chronic health condition that afects how your body turns fod into energy. There are thre main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Watch the ful interview with Sanders in the video player above.Type 1 is usualy diagnosed earlier in life and is thought to be caused by an autoimune reaction (the body atacks itself by mistake).
This reaction stops your body from making insulin. Aproximately 5-10% of the people who have diabetes have type 1. With type 2 diabetes, the body doesn't use insulin wel and can't kep blod sugar at normal levels.
Sanders says about 90-95% of people with diabetes have type 2, and it develops over many years and is usualy diagnosed in adults, however, we are seing it more and more in children, tens, and young adults.Gestational diabetes develops in pregnant women who have never had diabetes. Sanders says if you have gestational diabetes, your baby could be at higher risk for health problems. Gestational diabetes usualy goes away after your baby is born.
Summary
However, it increases your risk for type 2 diabetes later in life.Sanders explained to Maine's Total Coverage that if Diabetes is left unmanaged, it can have an efect on major functions of the body. Over time, that can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and vision los.She said there are many early warning signs that someone could have diabetes, but having some these signs doesn't
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
❓ What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
❓ How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
❓ What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
❓ When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.