What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is classified as an auto-immune disorder. This mean that the body rejects a certain part of itself. In the case of Type I diabetes, the body attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas. The pancreas either produces very little or none of the hormone called insulin. With Type II diabetes, the body still produces its own insulin, but it is resistant to it.

Insulin is needed to help move glucose, which is an energy source, across the membranes of body cells. The cells use glucose to carry out their normal functions. When there isn't enough insulin to help absorb the glucose, it builds up in the blood stream. The organs of the body do not get the food they need and essentially begin to starve. If this happens over a long period of time, many complications may occur. Diabetes is one of the five leading causes of blindness. It can cause heart disease, strokes and nerve damage which could lead to lower limb amputation.

What Causes Diabetes and What are the Symptoms?

There are many factors that contribute to the development of diabetes. Genetics, race, diet and lifestyle all play a part. Diabetes is not contagious, and it is generally people who are predisposed through genetics who are at risk. While the causes of Type I diabetes are unknown, obesity and stress greatly increase the chances of developing Type II diabetes. This is because the excess weight places a burden on the pancreas so that it becomes fatigued. This slows down the production of insulin. Being obese also increases insulin resistance. That is why sometimes women become diabetic while pregnant. The body is experiencing a lot of changes and there is sometimes significant weight gain.

Many people who have diabetes do not know it because the symptoms are not uncommon. Everyone at some time has extreme thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, headaches, dry and itchy skin, or fatigue. It is when these things happen consistently over an extended period time that a test needs to be done. Other symptoms of diabetes may include abnormal mood swings; regular skin, urinary tract or yeast infections and in some cases sexual dysfunction. People who have a known family medical history or are of ethnic minority groups need to educate themselves about the symptoms of diabetes so that if symptoms arise, they can be tested as soon as possible. There are many resources for people to study and become familiar with both types of diabetes. Going to the local health unit, taking books out from the library and researching on the Internet are just a few. People can also talk to their doctor about what to look for.