Diabetes: Types, Symptoms, Treatment, and Lifestyle Changes

If you or a family member is newly diagnosed with diabetes, knowing the basics and treatment options is essential. Undoubtedly, diabetes is a common disease. In the US, around 37.3 million people have diabetes. 

However, a chronic form of the disease may lead to multiple complications. A balanced diet, an active lifestyle, and some precautionary measures can help diabetic patients to experience a healthy life. 

But first, let us help you understand what diabetes is. 

Diabetes 

It is a condition when your body has a high level of blood sugar (glucose). When you eat and drink, your body gets glucose mainly from carbohydrates. The glucose is then transferred to other body parts for energy transmission. In diabetes, the glucose cannot transfer to other parts and remains in the bloodstream.

Insulin, a hormone responsible for this transmission, is either very low or absent. Sometimes, your body doesn’t properly respond to insulin. 

Types of Diabetes 

Diabetes can be of several types; some of the common types include: 

Type 2

Your body either does not produce enough insulin or becomes insulin resistant. 

Prediabetes 

It is known as borderline diabetes. Here, the blood sugar level is high but not as high to be categorized as diabetes. 

Type 1 diabetes

In this diabetes, your immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells. It is an auto-immune disease that usually occurs in young adults and children. 

Gestational diabetes 

It occurs during pregnancy and resolves on its own after the birth of a child. 

Other types like type 3c diabetes, LADA, MODY, and neonatal diabetes also exist. 

Symptoms of Diabetes 

Diabetes has some common symptoms like: 

• Tingling in the hands and feet 
• Dry mouth 
• Excessive thirst 
• Frequent urination 
• Sudden weight loss 
• Frequent vaginal yeast infection
• Fatigue 

Treatment and Management 

You need a tailored plan to manage diabetes as per your condition. Usually, the following strategies are helpful for diabetes treatment and management: 

1-     Medications 

2-    Insulin 

3-    Blood sugar monitoring 

4-    Diet plan

5-    Exercise 

Diet and Exercise for Diabetes 

Your diet plan will depend on the type of diabetes you have. Usually, doctors suggest not to eat sugary and starchy food. Besides this, a low-carb diet is important. Eating meals in portions is also a normal practice for diabetic patients. This way, the blood sugar level remains in control. 

Likewise, exercise helps in lowering the blood sugar level. It also enables your body to react to insulin effectively. Additionally, physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining your overall health. 

If you have gestational diabetes, consult with a gynecologist before exercising. In other types, walking and other exercises are always helpful. Some other physical activities include: 

• Swimming
• Cycling
• Dancing 
• Yoga 

Thankfully, managing diabetes becomes easier with a few lifestyle changes. Initially, they may make you feel overwhelmed. But within a few days, you will become habitual of a new lifestyle. 

Regular consultation by a healthcare expert is very important. Diabetes requires a team effort from your doctor, family, and yourself. Be sure to book an appointment for a diabetes checkup!