Diabetes is a general term for a condition in which the body is not able to use glucose properly. Although the physiology differs, all types of diabetes are characterized by high levels of glucose in your bloodstream. If glucose levels are allowed to remain elevated for an extended period of time, it can lead to serious health complications.
Physiology
When you eat carbohydrates, your digestive system breaks the macronutrient down into the simple sugar glucose. Glucose, which is the body's preferred source of energy, then travels through the small intestine and into the bloodstream. In healthy individuals, the presence of glucose in the bloodstream stimulates the pancreas to release a hormone called insulin. Insulin binds to the glucose in your bloodstream and carries it to your cells, where it can be used as energy.
Types of Diabetes
There are three major types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, which is classified as an autoimmune disease, occurs when your pancreas cannot properly produce the hormone insulin. As a result, glucose is able to accumulate in your bloodstream. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, type 1 diabetes makes up approximately 10 to 15 percent of diabetes cases.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and accounts for 90 to 95 percent of cases. Initially, those with type 2 diabetes can make insulin correctly, but their cells have become resistant to its action. As the condition progresses, your body's production of insulin decreases.
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. Like type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes is characterized by the cells' resistance to insulin.
Management
One of the most important aspects of managing your diabetes is healthy eating. Because your body cannot successfully control your blood sugar levels, it is important to monitor your food intake. Try to eat the same amount of food at the same times every day. This can help keep your blood sugar levels steady.
It is also important to monitor your blood sugar levels. Regular blood sugar readings can tell you how high or low your blood sugar level is at any given time. With this number, you can decide if your body needs glucose or you need to lower your blood sugar levels.
Medical Treatment
Medical treatment depends on the type of diabetes. If you have type 1 diabetes, you require insulin injections to survive. Insulin must be administered intravenously, because stomach enzymes interfere with the action of insulin if taken orally, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Oral medications that can help stimulate the pancreas to make insulin are available for those with type 2 diabetes.
Considerations
If you do not properly manage your diabetes, the chronic condition can eventually lead to a number of health complications. Some common complications include hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis. If diabetes is left unmanaged for an extended period of time, it can cause heart disease, kidney disease and nerve damage.
