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How Do You Know If You Have Diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus is a disorder characterized by the inability
of the body to either produce or respond to insulin making it
impossible to maintain proper levels of glucose (sugar) in the
blood. The extra glucose is excreted in the urine and because of
the high level of glucose more water is flushed through. The
diabetic experiences excessive urination and thirst.
The term Diabetes mellitus literally explains these symptoms:
The Greek term diabainein, means "to pass through" (referring to
the excessive urination) and mellitus comes from the Latin
"sweetened with honey" (referring to the excessive presence of
sugar).
There are basically two major types of diabetes: Type 1
(insulin-dependent) and Type 2 (non-insulin dependent).
Type 1 (formerly known juvenile-onset diabetes, because it is
diagnosed in children or young adults) is caused by both genetic
and environmental causes. In this case, the person's immune
system produces antibodies that destroy the cells that produce
insulin. Because the body can't produce insulin on its own, daily
insulin injections are required.
Type 2 (formerly known as adult-onset diabetes, because it
normally appears in people aged over 40) is the most common form
of diabetes, accounting for about 90% of cases. Genetic factors
play a major role in the development of Type 2, but obesity is
also a major factor. A typical Western lifestyle means a diet
that is high in fat and low in carbohydrates and a minimal
exercise plan and these habits are strong risk factors.
Interestingly, people who do not live in Westernized areas do not
tend to get Type 2 diabetes, regardless of their family
history.
A third type of diabetes, known as Gestational Diabetes,
affects women who have high blood-sugar levels during pregnancy.
This should be monitored as it can adversely affect the baby.
There is also a high probably that women who experience
gestational diabetes will develop Type 2 diabetes at a later
stage.
Diabetes symptoms to watch out for include; frequent
urination, excessive thirst and hunger, unusual weight loss,
increased fatigue, irritability and blurry vision. The American
Diabetes Association (ADA) website is an informative starting
point for all. Visit the site today and take the Online Diabetes
Risk Test, which can help you determine if you are at risk of
developing diabetes. If you are deemed at risk and are
experiencing one or more of the above mentioned symptoms you
should see your doctor immediately.
If you are diagnosed with diabetes the ADA website has
informative articles the disease, plus lots of suggestions on
lifestyle and diet changes for those diagnosed with diabetes. A
quick Internet search for "Diabetes Supply" will also bring up
various sites offering products suitable for those living with
diabetes.
There's nothing at all to be scared of. There's lots of help
and advice available literally at your fingertips.
Dean Erickson. Journalist, and web site builder Dean Erickson
lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.diabetes-top-resources.info
on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this
article.
MORE RESOURCES:
Google News
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