01/22/2025
As a diabetes nurse educator DNE,let's discuss a bit about Diabetes: A Chronic Health Condition
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is a primary source of energy, and insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps cells absorb glucose from the blood. When this process is impaired, blood sugar levels become elevated, leading to diabetes.
There are three main types of diabetes:
1. Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It often develops in childhood or early adulthood and requires insulin therapy.
2. Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, occurring when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it. It is closely linked to lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and weight.
3. Gestational Diabetes: This occurs during pregnancy when hormones impair insulin’s effectiveness, raising blood sugar levels. It usually resolves after childbirth but can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes later.
Symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Effective management involves a combination of healthy eating, regular exercise, monitoring blood sugar levels, and medication or insulin therapy if needed. Early detection and consistent care are key to preventing complications and improving quality of life for individuals with diabetes.
