Diabetes

Introduction:

              Diabetes is a disease in which there is a high glucose level in the blood. Glucose is the main source of energy for the body cells. In this article, we will discuss the basic concept of it, its impact on the human body, causes, symptoms, preventions and medicinal formulae used to treat or manage diabetes.

What is diabetes?

             Diabetes is a chronic medical condition in which there is a high level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. As we know, glucose is the main source of energy for the body’s cells and insulin. Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas that helps the body to use and store glucose in food.

             In people with diabetes, their body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or is unable to use it properly. As a result, there are high blood sugar levels.

Types of diabetes:-

There are two types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes:  It is an autoimmune disease that usually develops in childhood or adolescence. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
• Type 2 diabetes: It typically develops in adults and is often related to lifestyle factors like lack of physical activity, obesity, unhealthy eating habits and high use of sugary and processed foods.

Type 2 is a more common type of diabetes in humans.

Impact on the human body:-

               If diabetes is left untreated it can lead to serious health complications such as kidney diseases, heart diseases, nerve damage, vision problems etc.

Causes:-

              Several factors can contribute to the development of diabetes;

1. Genetics:  A family background with a history of diabetes increase the risk of developing it in you.
2. Obesity:   one of the most common causes of diabetes is obesity. Being overweight can lead to many health issues including it.
3. Sedentary lifestyle:  Lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle could also increase the chances of diabetes.
4. Age:  The risk of diabetes of type 2 is high in aged people, particularly after 45.
5. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS):  PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can increase the probability of developing diabetes.
6. Gestational diabetes:  This is also the most common cause in women nowadays. Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy. In some cases, women get rid of it after the completion of pregnancy duration. But in some cases, gestational diabetes transforms into type 2 diabetes and remains later in life.
7. Steroid use: Long-term use of corticosteroid medications can increase the risk of it’s development.

      Moreover, high blood pressure, pancreatic damage, and high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood can cause diabetes.

Symptoms:-

           The symptoms of having diabetes vary from person to person. But the most common symptoms are;

1. Fatigue
2. Blurred vision
3. Tract infection
4. Excessive hunger
5. Frequent urination
6. Sexual dysfunction
7. Dry and itchy skin
8. Swelling in feet
9. Slow healing of wounds
10. Irritability or mood swings
11. Fruity-smelling breath
12. Unexpected weight loss and gain

How to prevent diabetes?

       There are several ways to help, prevent or delay the onset of diabetes;

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Get regular exercise.
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet.
• Limit sugary and processed food.
• Use more vegetables as a salad.
• Use fruits and homemade fresh juices instead of packed and preserved juices.
• Quit smoking.
• Manage stress by meditation.
• Monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar.

Medicinal formulae:-

       There are several types of medications used to treat diabetes. Specific medications prescribed will depend on the types of it, individual patient factors and other medical conditions. Here are some medications used to treat it:

1. Metformin:  This is a commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes. It helps to lower blood sugar levels by reducing glucose production in the liver.
2.  DPP-4 inhibitors:  These medications help to regulate blood sugar levels by increasing the secretion of insulin. It also decreases the glucose production in the liver.
3. SGLT2 inhibitors: These medications also help to lower blood sugar levels by preventing the kidneys from re-absorbing glucose excretion in the urine.
4. Insulin: This medication is also used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It helps to manage it by regulating blood sugar levels.

NOTE: Consult professional health care before using these medications. Also, prevent self-medication.

Conclusion:-

           In conclusion, diabetes is a chronic medical condition that can cause serious health issues if it is left untreated. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, doing physical activity regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help in reducing the risk of it. In addition to this, some medicinal formulas can help in regulating blood sugar levels. Also, consult to doctor for proper treatment.