According to the Mayo Clinic, diabetes is a group of diseases that affect how your body uses blood glucose, commonly called blood sugar. The body breaks down foods into glucose, which enters the bloodstream, and eventually tissue cells, to provide energy. However, glucose cannot enter the cells if insulin is not present. Insulin is a hormone that makes it possible for the cells to take in glucose.
Types
If a patient has diabetes, he has too much glucose in his blood, which is called hyperglycemia. Diabetes can be type 1, type 2 or gestational. A patient with type 1 diabetes is not able to produce any insulin to carry sugar out of the blood and into cells for energy. In Type 2, patients do not produce enough insulin or the body stops responding to insulin. Gestational diabetes strikes some women during pregnancy.
Significance of Insulin
Insulin is a hormone that is produced naturally by the pancreas. After eating, as food is digested, the pancreas releases insulin to help move glucose into the cells and lower blood sugar levels. When insulin is not present or the body doesn't respond to it, the body will start to use fat as an energy source. If glucose is not being used, levels in the bloodstream will increase. According to "Fluids and Electrolytes Demystified," the buildup of glucose causes several problems, including fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Type 1
Patients with type 1 diabetes who do not produce insulin need to take insulin to control the levels of sugar in the bloodstream. Insulin can only be given through injection or an insulin pump. Patients need to check their blood sugar frequently, sometimes several times a day. Based on the level of blood sugar, a specific amount of insulin is given. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, many types of insulin are available, including rapid-acting insulin, long-acting insulin and intermediate options. In addition to insulin, type 1 diabetics can help control their blood glucose levels by eating right, exercising, monitoring their sugars and taking their medication as prescribed.
Type 2
In type 2 diabetes, because the body is not producing enough insulin or the body is not responding to it, medications are also necessary. Type 2 diabetics may use insulin and other oral medications. According to the Mayo Clinic, some diabetes medications stimulate your pancreas to produce and release more insulin. Others inhibit the production and release of glucose from your liver, which means you need less insulin to transport sugar into your cells.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes usually resolves itself after pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormone changes cause a shortage of insulin. Many women can control blood sugars with diet and physical activity, but some need insulin to keep the glucose level within normal range.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Diabetes
- "Fluids and Electrolytes Demystified"; 2008
