Blood glucose levels are normally regulated by insulin, which is made by the pancreas.
Diabetes affects people who have an insulin imbalance.
There is no cure, but the symptoms can be controlled.
The two main types of diabetes are type 1 (insulin dependent) and type 2 (non-insulin dependent).
Type 1
Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune destruction of insulin-making cells in the pancreas.
It is one of the most common chronic childhood illnesses in developed nations.
It is caused partly by genetic factors which are triggered by certain infections.
Type 1 diabetes is usually affects people under the age of 30, but can occur later in life.
Type 2
Type 2 diabetes is caused by inadequate levels of insulin or a failure of the body's cells to respond properly to insulin.
Type 2 diabetes is brought on by lifestyle factors and genetics.
It is most common for Type 2 diabetes to surface after the age of 40, although the age of onset can be earlier.
Type 2 diabetes is sometimes diagnosed in overweight teenagers and children and brought on by a lack of exercise or an unhealthy diet.
It is frequently associated with being overweight.
It is also common in people with high blood pressure or heart disease.
Symptoms of diabetes
- Frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger.
- Lethargy, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, weight loss.
- Blurred vision can occur because high blood glucose can lead to changes in the shape of the lens of the eye.
Treatment
Type 1 diabetes is managed with insulin injections or a pump as well as a special diet, blood glucose level monitoring and exercise.
Type 2 diabetes is treated with diet, exercise, medication, insulin, weight management and blood glucose level monitoring.
