There are two primary types of diabetes, known as type 1 (Insulin Dependent Diabetes or Juvenile Diabetes) and type 2 (Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes). In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas fails to make enough insulin-a hormone important for metabolism-because of damage by an autoimmune process. With type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance usually occurs first; the pancreas produces the insulin, but the body develops a resistance and requires higher and higher amounts for it to be effective. The pancreas makes more and more insulin, the cells become increasingly resistant, which results in high glucose and high insulin levels. There is also another type which is not really common, it’s known as Gestational Diabetes; it’s a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy, although it increases the risk a woman may develop type 2 later in life.
CAUSES
- Genetic and environmental factors
SYMPTOMS
- Increased urination
- Thirst
- Hunger
- Fatigue, which may occur with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
RISK FACTORS
Type 1 Diabetes
- Family History
Type 2 Diabetes
- Family history, especially a parent or sibling
- Obesity, especially abdominal fat
- Age 45 or older
- Non-Caucasian
- Lack of exercise
- Gestational diabetes or delivering a baby who weighs more than 9 Ibs (4kg)
- High blood pressure
- Blood levels of triglycerides (a type of fat molecule) greater than 250 mg/Dl
- High blood cholesterol level, with an HDL of less than 35 mg/Dl
TREATMENTS
There is no cure for diabetes but the disease can be managed with a combination of
- Exercise
- Diet
- Weight control and;
- Drugs
Great website.
Great website.