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.

How is a Diagnosis Made?

There are several tests that are done to determine if someone has diabetes. The most commonly used and preferred method is the Fasting Plasma Glucose test. The patient either fasts overnight or for eight hours. After this, a blood sample is taken and then analyzed for glucose. If the levels are above the nationally prescribed norm, the patient has diabetes.

There are other tests as well. Some of them require fasting, and some of them work in conjunction with other tests.

Impaired Fasting Glucose: This is a relatively new test. A sample of blood is taken and if glucose levels read higher than the norm but lower than diabetic range, the patient's body is slow to utilize insulin. Treatment should be discussed with a physician to see if diet change and weight loss can prevent full-blown diabetes.

Oral Glucose Tolerance: This tests consists of having the patient fast for at least eight hours. They also may not smoke. Two hours after drinking a liquid high in carbohydrates, blood samples will be taken every half hour up to a maximum of three hours. If the patient consistently shows elevated glucose levels, there is a positive diagnosis.

Random Blood Glucose: This one is partnered with either an oral glucose, fasting blood plasma or another random blood glucose test. Glucose levels are tested after eating and drinking. If the results are 200mg/dl (American measurement) or 11mmol/l (Canadian measurement), another one of the tests are performed to confirm diabetes.

Glucose Challenge: This test is performed on expectant mothers to see if they have gestational diabetes. Women of African American, Pacific Islander, Hispanic, Asian or Native American/Canadian decent and those who are overweight or have diabetes in their family are more likely to be tested. The glucose challenge is usually performed between the sixth and seventh month of pregnancy. A blood test is taken after the patient drinks liquid glucose. If the results are above the prescribed national norm, an oral glucose tolerance may be performed to confirm gestational diabetes.

Taking Care of Diabetes After Diagnosis.

After a physician has properly diagnosed the patient, it is time to discuss treatment. The first step is to enroll in diabetic education classes. These are usually held at a local hospital, health unit or diabetes education center. A nurse or physician specializing in diabetes health care teach these invaluable sessions. Patients are taught about different control methods ranging from diet and exercise to medications and insulin.

Exercise

Whichever control method a doctor prescribes, exercise is an essential component of diabetes management. Exercise keeps the circulation keen. This is important because over time, damage may be done to the nervous system without proper blood flow. Exercise wards off heart disease and stroke, and it helps to shed extra poundage that may lead to greater insulin resistance. Scientific studies show that exercise lowers cholesterol, which may increase due to the diabetes. Stress is definitely something that will make glucose levels difficult to maintain. Exercise is an excellent way to diffuse any frustrations that life may bring.

Healthy Meal Plan

While attending the diabetes classes, the patients will have the opportunity of meeting with a dietitian. This is where a personalized meal plan can be drawn up to fit their specific lifestyle. Diabetes research has advanced tremendously over the past decade or so, and diabetics are no longer bound by strict regimen. They can eat what they want, when they want, as long as they learn how to work everything into the meal plan. They also have to realize that treating themselves to food that may elevate sugar levels will require extra exercise to bring them back down again.

Taking Care of the Spirit

Keeping the mind and spirit healthy is just as important as keeping the body in good health. Joining a support group for diabetics and their loved ones can help to cope with the frustrations that come along with living with a chronic illness. There are many online support groups where people can meet and share. If there are no groups available, meeting regularly with a professional counselor or even a trusted friend will give encouragement. Going to church, synagogue or another place of worship can help to focus on things outside of self. Studies show that people who take time to pray or meditate have better overall health. If a person is not of any particular faith, simply going to a peaceful place and enjoying the atmosphere can be beneficial.

Having diabetes does not have to mean a person stops living. Although it can be a very difficult struggle, diabetics with both Type I and Type II versions of the disorder can lead very rewarding and fulfilling lives. It only takes patience, perseverance and utilizing the resources that are available.