Comprehensive information about diabetes care and management
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). When you have diabetes, your body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it produces, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
An autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
The most common form, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough. Often linked to lifestyle factors.
Develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery. Requires monitoring to prevent complications.
A condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Can be reversed with lifestyle changes.
ð° Increased thirst and frequent urination
ðŦ Extreme fatigue and weakness
ðïļ Blurred vision
ð―ïļ Increased hunger despite eating
âïļ Unexplained weight loss
ðĐđ Slow-healing wounds and infections
Understanding the causes can help in prevention and better management:
Family history plays a significant role. Having a parent or sibling with diabetes increases your risk of developing the condition.
Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance and is a major risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.
Physical inactivity reduces the body's ability to use insulin effectively, increasing the risk of developing diabetes.
High intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and refined carbohydrates can lead to obesity and insulin resistance.
Risk of Type 2 diabetes increases with age, especially after 45, as the body's insulin production and sensitivity may decrease.
Women who had gestational diabetes during pregnancy have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious health complications. Early detection and proper management are crucial:
Diabetes significantly increases risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Nerve damage causing numbness, tingling, or pain in extremities, especially feet.
Damage to blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision loss or blindness.
Nephropathy can progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation.
Poor circulation and nerve damage can lead to serious infections and amputations.
Type 2 diabetes may increase the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Regular monitoring and professional care can prevent or delay these complications.
Effective diabetes management requires a comprehensive approach combining multiple strategies:
Follow a balanced meal plan with controlled carbohydrate intake, emphasizing whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits. Work with a nutritionist to create a personalized diet plan.
Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Take prescribed medications as directed, whether oral medications or insulin therapy. Never adjust your medication without consulting your doctor.
Check blood sugar levels regularly as recommended by your healthcare provider. Keep track of your readings to identify patterns and adjust treatment accordingly.
Consult Dr. Tirthankar immediately if you experience:
Early detection and proper management can prevent serious complications. Don't wait â schedule your consultation today.
Dr. Tirthankar, a leading diabetologist in Bangalore, has successfully treated hundreds of patients with type 1, type 2, gestational diabetes, and prediabetes. With a patient-focused approach, he provides personalized treatment plans to help manage blood sugar and prevent complications.
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