Adult Diabetes Causes And Symptoms
Diabetes or Diabetes mellitus, as it is commonly referred to, occurs due to a dysfunction in metabolism, wherein the patient records abnormally high blood sugar levels. Sugar levels in our body are regulated by a hormone called insulin and is generated in the pancreas. There are two forms of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. While adult diabetes is the most common condition, one also gets to see cases of children suffering from the dreaded disorder. What is diabetes and what are the symptoms? Read on to find out more
Type 1 Diabetes occurs due to the diminished production of the hormone insulin. Type 2 Diabetes, on the other hand, is characterized by diminished response of the body to the insulin present therein. Both these forms of diabetes cause hyperglycemia, which gives rise to the major symptoms of the disease, namely, heightened thirst leading to increased intake of fluids, which in turn means, increased production of urine. Other symptoms are blurring of vision, general lethargy, lack of energy, unusually slow healing of injuries, sudden weight loss and unexplained changes in general metabolism. In some men, this condition may also give rise to sudden impotence.
It is very vital to recognize the symptoms earlier on, as this condition, which may not seem to pose such a major problem at the first instance, can actually be potentially dangerous and even life-threatening. Long term effects of diabetes include kidney and even heart dysfunction and failure. Today, it is estimated that more than 15 million people suffer from diabetes in the US alone!
Testing for diabetes
Do you think you might be suffering from any of the above symptoms? The best means to know whether you are a victim of diabetes is to get a fasting blood glucose level test. If the report reveals that blood glucose levels are higher than 126 mg/dL on two or more occasions, then you are diagnosed with diabetes. In case these levels waver between 100-126 mg/dL, you are considered to be in the pre-diabetes state, with a condition referred to as impaired fasting glucose. This state is also viewed as a risk factor for Type 2 Diabetes.
Is there a cure for diabetes?
While there is nothing like a permanent cure for the disorder yet, one can try ones best to stabilize blood glucose levels by consuming a sensible diet, exercising moderately and by adhering strictly to the doctors advice and prescribed medication. Being watchful of the symptoms will ensure that one can live a longer, richer life, preventing health complications from arising in the future.
In conclusion, you no more need to fret if you have been diagnosed as suffering from adult diabetes. The important factor here is to change your lifestyle and diet. Continue medication, keep a keen eye on your symptoms and report immediately to your physician if you suspect something going wrong with your general health. Be proactive in tackling this condition, learn to eat and live healthy, control your weight, get enough exercise and sleep and you will soon see a marked improvement in your health!
By:
Gary Sanders
Gary Sanders is an expert on . He has dedicated the last decade of his life to mastering every aspect of diabetes including nutrition, diabetes symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention. He has created an award winning guide that is available at
