Coping Up with Diabetes

Types of Diabetes:

Type I Diabetes:It is a condition where patients do not produce their own Insulin,which is required for uptake and processing of sugar by body cells.Here the patient has no option but to take Insulin shots daily.

Type II Diabetes:Also known as Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes Melitus(NIDDM).Here the cells in the body become resistant to action of Insulin,also Pancreas produces too little Insulin.This type of Diabetes usually occur in adults at age 40 or older.

Signs of Diabetes:
1.You often feel thirsty.

2.You pass urine frequently.

3.You suddenly start losing weight .

4.You do not have enough energy.

5.You cannot see well.

6.You are more prone to infections.

7.Your cuts and bruises heal slowly.

8.You feel tingling or numbness in your hands of feet.

Long term complications of Diabetes as follows:
Heart Disease:The arteries become blocked and narrow.this can lead to High Blood Pressure,strokes,heart attacks and poor blood circulation.

Retinopathy:It is damage to retina of eye.

Neuropathy:It is the damage to nerves producing weakness,numbness and burning particularly in feet and hands.

Nephropathy:It is damage to Kidneys.

Type I Diabetes can cause a potentially fatal condition called as Diabetic Ketoacidosis which can lead to "Diabetic coma".

Tests for Diabetes:
A fasting Blood sugar in excess of 126 mg per cent or post prandial(after meal) sugar of more than 200 mg per cent indicates presence of Diabetes.A person suffering from Diabetes must also carry out these tests to rule out other complications:HbA1c(Glucose memory test),Lipid Profile,Cardiac Risk Markers,Liver Profile,Renal profile.

Managing Diabetes:Diabetes can be controlled by following the below mentioned steps,
1.Eat more of complex carbohydrates like cereals(wheat,jowar,bajra),high fibre(vegetables) and avoid refined sugars and fat.

2.Exercise,like simple walking daily is a must.

3.Take your medicines regularly.

4.Tobacco,in any form and alcohol must be avoided.

5.Skin and foot care is very important.

6.Regular checking of Blood Sugar level is must.