Diabetes is a disease that results from an insufficient amount of insulin or insulin that doesn't function properly in the body. According the American Diabetes Association (ADA), type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease. Once diagnosed it must be treated carefully through blood glucose monitoring to avoid adverse health effects. However, for those not yet diagnosed with the disease, this type of diabetes can be prevented or delayed through healthy lifestyle changes.
Description
When foods are eaten, the starches and sugars from those foods are broken down into glucose which is transported to the cells of the body where it is converted to energy. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas and helps to transport the glucose from the blood to the cells for use. In individuals with type 2 diabetes, not enough insulin is produced or the insulin does not function efficiently and is not recognized by the cells, also called insulin resistance. This leads to a buildup of glucose in the blood. Diabetes is diagnosed when you have a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dl or higher measured by a Fasting Plasma Glucose Test.
Treatment
The most effective way to control and treat diabetes is to closely monitor blood sugar level and keep it within a normal range. Those with the disease must balance their eating and exercise to control the level of sugar in their blood. In addition, diabetes pills and insulin may be necessary as part of the treatment. Blood sugar levels are monitored by the patient on a regular basis using a finger prick to draw a small drop of blood, place it on a test strip, and then insert the strip into a blood glucose meter to get a reading.
Conditions
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is common in persons with type 2 diabetes. Some symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, shaking, confusion and headache. It should be treated immediately to avoid fainting and further complication. The best way to quickly treat it is by consuming sugar in the form of glucose tablets, fruit juice or hard candy. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, can also occur with diabetes and can lead to more serious complications. One of the best ways to control hyperglycemia is to exercise, but if your blood glucose has reached a level of 240 mg/dl exercise may cause adverse effects. It is best to talk with your doctor about the most effective way to control and treat hyperglycemia.
Complications
In persons with type 2 diabetes glucose is unable to get into the cells; therefore, the cells lack the energy they need. In addition, the buildup of glucose in the blood is dangerous for the eyes, kidneys, nervous system and heart. Diabetic neuropathy, or damage to the nerves of the body, is one of the most common complications of the disease and is linked to the foot problems due to reduced blood circulation. Type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and according to the ADA, 65 percent of those with diabetes die from one of these two conditions. In addition, kidney damage and kidney failure can be caused by type 2 diabetes, as well as an increased risk for blindness.
Prevention/Solution
Changes in diet and exercise can help prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes. According to the ADA, the Diabetes Prevention Program study showed that 30 minutes of physical activity a day combined with a weight loss of 5 to 10 percent of current body weight resulted in a 58 percent reduction in the risk of developing diabetes. Include more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein sources in your diet. This, combined with regular daily activity such as walking, gardening or biking, can help you lose unhealthy weight and reduce your risk for developing the disease.
