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Writer's pictureHumphrey Mwangi

Diabetes 101: Types, Symptoms, Screening, and Prevention

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, so what better time to discuss this common condition affecting so many people? Whether you have diabetes yourself, know someone who does, or just want to learn more, it’s important to understand the basics about diabetes, how to spot the symptoms, and ways to prevent it.

 

Let’s dive in!

 



What is Diabetes?

 

Diabetes happens when your body has trouble regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels. Glucose is essential because it fuels your cells, giving you energy. But when your blood sugar stays too high for too long, it can lead to serious health problems. There are three main types of diabetes you should know about:

 

Type 1 Diabetes

This is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, your body can’t control blood sugar levels, so people with Type 1 need to take insulin every day to survive. This type usually starts in childhood or early adulthood but can happen at any age.

 

  • Symptoms: Sudden weight loss, extreme thirst, frequent urination, constant hunger, and feeling tired all the time.

  • Who it affects: Type 1 diabetes can happen to anyone, but it’s more common in kids and young adults.

 

Type 2 Diabetes

This is the most common type of diabetes and is usually linked to lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, or being overweight. With Type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn’t make enough insulin or becomes resistant to it. Unlike Type 1, Type 2 often develops slowly over time.

 

  • Symptoms: Fatigue, frequent urination, excessive thirst, blurred vision, slow-healing cuts, and frequent infections. Many people with Type 2 might not show symptoms for years!

  • Who it affects: Type 2 diabetes usually affects adults over 45, but with rising obesity rates, younger people and even children are being diagnosed more often.

 

Gestational Diabetes

This type happens during pregnancy when hormones from the placenta make it hard for the body to use insulin properly. Most of the time, gestational diabetes goes away after the baby is born, but it can increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

 

  • Symptoms: Gestational diabetes doesn’t usually show symptoms, so regular prenatal care and testing are important.

  • Who it affects: Any pregnant woman can develop gestational diabetes, but it’s more likely if you’re overweight, over 25, or have a family history of diabetes.

 

How is Diabetes Diagnosed?

 

Early diagnosis is key when it comes to managing diabetes and avoiding complications like heart disease, kidney problems, or nerve damage. Fortunately, screening for diabetes is simple.

 



Common Screening Tests:

  • A1C Test: This blood test shows your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It’s a great way to catch prediabetes or diagnose Type 2 diabetes.

  • Fasting Blood Sugar Test: This test measures your blood sugar after fasting (not eating) for 8 hours. If your blood sugar is higher than normal, it could be a sign of diabetes.

  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This is usually used during pregnancy to check for gestational diabetes. You’ll drink a sugary liquid, and your blood sugar levels will be tested over a few hours.

 

Who Should Be Screened?

  • If you’re over 45, it’s a good idea to get screened, especially if you’re overweight.

  • If you’re younger than 45 but have risk factors like a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, or a sedentary lifestyle, you should talk to your doctor about testing.

  • Pregnant women are typically screened for gestational diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. You may be screened earlier if you have a past history of Gestational Diabetes.

 

Can Diabetes Be Prevented?

 

The great news is that Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented! Making healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk of developing it.

 

Here are some tips for preventing Type 2 diabetes:

 

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

Fill your plate with veggies, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Cut back on sugary drinks and processed foods that can spike blood sugar levels.

 

2. Stay Active

Regular physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Whether it’s walking, swimming, or dancing in your living room, every little bit counts!

 

3. Lose Extra Weight

If you’re overweight, losing just 5-10% of your body weight can lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

 

4. Quit Smoking

 Smoking is a big risk factor for diabetes and many other health issues. If you smoke, now is a great time to quit!

 

5. Get Regular Check-Ups

   Regular doctor visits help catch prediabetes or early diabetes before it leads to serious problems. Keep an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.

 

Final Thoughts

Diabetes is a serious condition, but with the proper knowledge and habits, it’s possible to manage it or even prevent it from happening in the first place. Whether you’re concerned about developing diabetes or you’re living with it, remember—you’re not alone! Talk to your healthcare provider about the best ways to keep your blood sugar in check and live your healthiest life.

 

Let’s take this Diabetes Awareness Month as a reminder to take care of ourselves and look out for each other. Do you have any questions or need more tips? Drop them in the comments below!

 

Stay healthy!

 

Megan Mwangi, ARNP 

Complete Care of Iowa

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