Diabetes mellitus is a disorder that causes impaired or decreased production of insulin hormone that leads to excessive production of glucose in the bloodstream. Over the years, diabetes has evolved as a single major causative disorder that paves the way for various diseases like cardiovascular disorders, stroke, kidney failure, and more. The prevalence and mortality rate for this disorder have always been on the uptrend. Therefore, the need for effective management becomes mandatory.
Types of diabetes
- Type 1 Diabetes: It is insulin-dependent diabetes where the affected individual lacks the hormone insulin that is essential for the regulation of glucose. The onset is usually very early and commonly diagnosed at childhood stages. This type of diabetes is chronic and requires the support of insulin therapy throughout a lifetime.
- Type 2 Diabetes: It is the most common form of diabetes that is prevalent in the world. It is often termed as non insulin-dependent, where it alters or inhibits the body from using the insulin hormone and affects the use of glucose needed for energy production.
Another kind of diabetes is also prevalent among individuals, that is type 1.5 diabetes. This type of diabetes is known as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA). It is often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes since it shares the same characteristics as both type 1 and type 2 forms. This is characterized by insulin-dependent but slowly progressing diabetes featuring a late diagnosis in adulthood.
Symptoms
- Polyuria (Frequent urination)
- Polydipsia (Increased thirst)
- Polyphagia (Increased hunger)
- Abnormal weight loss
- Slower healing of wounds
- Blurred vision
- Recurrent infections
- Fatigue
Strategies for Managing Diabetes Effectively
1. Monitor your Blood Sugar Levels frequently:
- Blood sugar levels must be monitored at regular intervals as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Always use a glucose meter to monitor blood sugar at home and keep track of your records.
2. Follow a Healthy Meal Plan:
- Eat foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Limit refined carbohydrates, sugary foods, and excessive intake of saturated and trans fats.
- Limit your intake by carefully keeping an eye on portion sizes and number of meals. This helps regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Lifestyle modifications:
- Walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling over a regular period of time helps improve the condition.
- Engage for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar levels.
4. Stay Hydrated and Limit Alcohol Intake:
- Always drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated and support kidney function.
- Try to stay out of alcohol consumption, as it can affect the level of blood sugar and interfere with diabetes management.
5. Quit Smoking and Avoid Tobacco Products:
- Try to quit smoking, as smoking can worsen complications of diabetes and increase the risk of developing another disease.
6. Therapeutic approaches:
- Type 1 diabetes: Insulin therapy is used as medication management for type 1 diabetes since the patients no longer produce insulin, therefore requiring lifelong management. Multiple daily injections of insulin at regular intervals and insulin pump therapy help to mimic the body's natural insulin production.
- Type 2 diabetes: There are a range of treatment options available for type 2 diabetes, like oral antidiabetic medications belonging to sulfonylureas, metformin, α-Glucosidase inhibitors, meglitinides, SGLT-2 inhibitors, and more; it also encompasses injectable insulin therapies. However, due to the increased prevalence and resistance of medications over the years, dual or triple therapy is practiced now. Identify your best medicine for diabetes after consulting the healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a chronic condition that is widely prevalent; however, following the strategic approaches, including diet and lifestyle modifications along with medication therapy, ensures the effective management of the disease and improves overall well-being. Remember, diabetes management is a lifelong process. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and proactive measures, you can lead a life with minimized risk of complications.
