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What is Diabetes Mellitus? |
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Diabetes mellitus, or diabetes, is a disease related to sweetness. It is a condition in which there is too much sugar in the blood and urine. Diabetes can occur at any age and though it may not be curable, it can be controlled. A person with diabetes can live a full, active and healthy life. Glucose is essential for the normal functioning of the body. When the level of glucose goes above normal and continuously remains high then the condition is known as diabetes mellitus. Thus in diabetes, there is a continuous excess of glucose in blood.
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What are the symptoms of diabetes? |
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- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased hunger and tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Slow healing after injuries
- Blurred vision
- Numbness and tingling in the feet
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What are the types of Diabetes Mellitus? |
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There are 2 types of diabetes:
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Type 1 Diabetes
Also called as Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM), it is usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers or young adults. In this type of diabetes, the beta cells of pancreas no longer make insulin. Such patients require insulin for their survival.
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Type 2 Diabetes
Also called as Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM), it is the commonest type of diabetes and 90% of patients belong to this group. People can develop type 2 diabetes at any age. In this type, the pancreas does not make enough insulin. Also, the body is unable to use the insulin that is produced. This type of diabetes can be controlled with diet and medicines. If these fail, insulin may be needed.
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Who are at risk of developing diabetes? |
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Risk factors for developing include:
- Family history of diabetes: If any of your blood relations suffer from diabetes, the chances that you too will have diabetes are higher
- Obesity: Excess body fat brings out diabetes much earlier
- Lack of Exercise: Regular exercise helps to burn up calories, prevent obesity and help utilisation of insulin. Lack of exercise increases the risk of diabetes
- Mental Stress: tension, anxiety and stress of surgery can precipitate diabetes in those with a tendency to get diabetes
- Medications: Some medicines can increase the blood sugar levels and cause diabetes
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How does diabetes affect the nervous system? |
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Diabetes can cause extensive nerve damage. It can affect the functioning of the peripheral nerves by reducing the ability of nerves to carry messages, leading to a condition called as diabetic polyneuropathy. It can also affect individual nerves. Diabetes accelerates the accumulation of fats, causing narrowing of the blood vessels of your brain and predisposing to stroke. Diabetes also increases the risk for infections. |
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How do I control diabetes? |
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There is no cure for diabetes yet. But you can control it and lead an active life, like any other person. Your doctor will decide whether you require medicines or insulin. You can adopt changes in your lifestyle that will help to control diabetes:
Diet: Modifications in the diet can reduce blood sugar levels
- Have a balanced diet
- Eat more high fiber containing foods
- Avoid all forms of sweets
Exercise: Regular exercise makes insulin work better and helps to control your weight. In addition, it also helps to control your cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Walking, swimming and cycling are all good ways to exercise |
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