Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes versus Type 2 Diabetes

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes versus Type 2 Diabetes

In the majority of cases there will be warning signs and symptoms that something is
wrong and that you need a check-up at the doctor.  There are similar warning signs that
overlap with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.  But there are also symptoms that are specific to
each type of the disease.

Symptoms for type 1 diabetes can include:

*    An increased thirst that is not satisfied after drinking extra fluids
*    A frequent need to urinate (more than normal)
*    A dry or fuzzy feeling inside the mouth
*    Unexplained and sudden weight loss
*    Feeling light-headed, weak or dizzy
*    Sight problems such as blurry vision

Symptoms for type 2 diabetes can include:

*    Sharp or numbing pain in the legs
*    Cuts or bruises that take a long time to heal
*    Recurrent yeast infections
*    Sight problems such as blurry vision
*    An increased thirst that is not satisfied after drinking extra fluids
*    A frequent need to urinate (more than usual)

Many of these symptoms do not always mean diabetes is the problem they can also be
indicative of other medical problems.  It is a good idea to seek medical attention if any of
these signs show up.  Symptoms for type 1 diabetes usually come on very rapidly
whereas symptoms for type 2 diabetes may develop gradually over time.

In young children who are experiencing any of the symptoms it may be hard to tell if they
are just having a bad day or are really sick.  Keep a close on them, especially if they are
younger and may not be able to articulate how they are feeling very well.  If you have even the slighest doubts, or suspect that you see the possible signs of diabetes it is better to
err on the side of caution and book a doctor’s appointment if there are any concerns that
you might have.

Hyperglycemia and Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Hyperglycemia with Type 1 Diabetes and  Type 2 Diabetes

Elevated blood sugars are not good for your body and prolonged exposure to high blood
sugars can have devastating affects on your organs (specifically your heart, kidneys, and
eyes).  Recognizing the signs of high glucose levels and testing regularly can help to keep
you aware and in control of this important part of being a diabetic.

The symptoms that indicate your blood sugar is too high are the same signs that you
might recognize from when you were first diagnosed with diabetes – an extreme thirst,
frequent urination, and a feeling of lethargy.  The good news is that once you are aware
of how your body reacts to high blood sugar you can act more quickly because you know
what is going on with your body.

If you are sick or are taking certain medications your blood glucose levels could be
higher than normal.  It is important to advise your pharmacist that you are diabetic when
you are picking up your prescription.  They can advise you of the side effects you can
expect and what you should do about them if anything.

If your blood sugar is high everyday at the same time it may be a signal that your body
needs more insulin.  If you are comfortable adjusting your own dosage do so in small
increments.  If you are not comfortable a call in to your doctor or diabetes educator is in
order and they can advise you on any adjustments that you will need to make.

In addition, review what you have eaten recently.  If you have tried a new food or have
been less active lately or you have eaten a food high in carbohydrates that is probably the
reason for the high blood sugar readings.  Once you know the reason for the high blood
sugars you can do something to fix it and prevent it from happening again. Read more about type 2 diabetes.

You will also get information on type 1 diabetes

Diabetes – Possible Complications From Diabetes

Diabetes – Possible effects of  Diabetes

One of the possible tragic effects of diabetes is the effects the disease has on various organs and body functions. They cover a wide range of systems and conditions. Fortunately, most are treatable and/or manageable.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, for example, is a common side effect of diabetes medications. Since diabetes is characterized by too much glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia), treating it can produce too low a level (hypoglycemia). It can be mild and adjustable by changing diet or medications. But careful monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential to proper management.

Heart Disease and Stroke

Cardiovascular problems are more likely among those who suffer from diabetes. High glucose levels can gradually lead to increases of fatty deposits on blood vessels, constricting flow and possibly leading to atherosclerosis (clogging or hardening of the blood vessels). That increases the odds of heart attack or stroke. Those who have diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke, and often at a younger age than average.

Here again, though, the condition can be managed to minimize the odds of heart disease or stroke. An appropriate exercise regimen can help keep your cardiovascular in optimal condition. A heart healthy diet will reduce the odds of atherosclerosis. A good diet also reduces the chances of a stroke. In some cases, simple aspirin treatments may be helpful.

Eye Problems

A variety of eye problems are amongst the possible effects of diabetes. Indeed, one of the common symptoms is blurry vision. Excess glucose in the blood draws fluid out of tissues, including the lenses. That makes it more difficult to correctly focus. But there are other areas of the eye that can be affected, as well.

The retina (the lining on the back of the eye) may have its proper function impaired. As a side effect of elevated blood pressure caused by diabetes, small blood vessels in the eye can be damaged. That harms the retina. It may manifest itself in the form of blurry vision, but it can also appear as rings around lights or dark spots in your field of vision.

Careful monitoring of glucose levels and blood pressure can help minimize the odds of eye problems from diabetes. Here again, an appropriate diet, including lowering cholesterol and a good exercise routine will keep blood pressure under control.

Nervous System

One of the follow on effects of continual high blood pressure may be damage to the nervous system. When blood vessels are impaired they’re less efficient at performing that essential function. Blood oxygenates the nerve cells. When deprived they will be impaired.

Controlling blood pressure will help reduce the odds of nervous system problems.

Kidney

Kidneys help filter the blood to eliminate waste products and remove toxins. Diabetes can impair that filtering function. That may lead to protein leaking out of the kidneys and into the urine where it’s no longer available to the body for useful purposes. On the other hand, since the filtering function is less efficient, some waste products may go back into the bloodstream rather than being eliminated.

Keeping blood glucose level and blood pressure to the right level can help reduce the odds of kidney problems. In some cases, special medication (such as an ACE, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor or ARB, angiotensin receptor blocker) may be appropriate.

In all cases, the best course is to seek professional guidance for diagnosis and the appropriate treatments.

Complications in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Complications in Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes

The long-term effects of improperly managed diabetes on your body and internal organs
can be very serious.  The different complications range from eye to heart problems and in
severe cases can cause premature death.

Heart disease is the leading cause of deaths in diabetics.  The best way to prevent damage
to your heart is to follow your diabetic meal plan and participate in some form of physical
activity every day.  By quitting smoking you can decrease the chances of developing any
heart problems later on in life.  Eating a diet low in saturated fats will promote good heart
health and a normal blood pressure too.

If blood sugar levels are not controlled they can lead to serious eye and sight problems
including blindness.  High glucose in your systems will make small veins in your eyes
start to bleed.  A regular check-up with an ophthalmologist to check for any signs of
damage is recommended once per year.  To prevent this, keep your blood sugars under
control.

Kidney failure is most common in diabetics who do not control their blood sugars for
extended periods of time.  When the kidneys fail they are no longer able to clean the
blood.  After kidney failure the only two options for treatment are dialysis (you are
hooked up to a machine that cleans your blood) or a kidney transplant.

Diabetics should take extra care of their gums and teeth as they are more susceptible to
gingivitis and other gum disease.  A semi-annual check up at the dentist with a regular
brushing and flossing routine will help to prevent this disease and the potential loss of
your teeth.

All of these complications can be avoided or lessened by the proper management of your
diabetes.  By following the guidelines set for you by your doctor and checking your blood
sugars daily you can lead a long and healthy life with diabetes.

Diabetes – Self-Treatment Devices for Diabetics

Diabetes – Self-Treatment Devices for Diabetics

Most cases of diabetes treatment are primarily in the hands of the patient. While periodic testing by a professional lab is desirable, along with regular physician consultation, the treatments themselves are typically performed by the diabetic.

Fortunately, there are more convenient and relatively painless ways to do that than ever before. While no one wants to have diabetes, the treatment options provide safe, reliable methods of self-care.

Some cases of Type 2 diabetes can be treated almost entirely with diet and exercise. Many of these might actually be labeled pre-diabetes, a condition in which the blood glucose level is chronically elevated, but not to the degree of actual diabetes.

But most of those who suffer from Type 2 diabetes, and virtually all Type 1 diabetes patients, will require some form of glucose management. That usually means taking insulin.

In past decades, that was delivered by one method: a injection of insulin from a glass syringe. That required great care, since it involved the need to sterilize the needle and injection location, and give oneself regular shots. It was important to measure the dose accurately, as well. Not the worst possible problem, but far from pleasant, to be sure.

That option is still used in one form or another today, but there are also several other choices for contemporary self-care of diabetes.

Insulin Pens

Today, one can use pre-filled insulin pens. These are like a syringe in that they still inject insulin, but the cartridges and needle are sterile and the dosage is pre-measured. Insulin formulations vary and so the pens come in a variety. Most will deliver 300 units from an easy-to-use ink-cartridge style device, but they’re also adjustable.

The user dials in the desired amount with a knob on one end. The amount to be injected shows up in a small window on the side. The tip of the ‘pen’ contains a needle. The needle is inserted just under the skin, the insulin delivered, then both needle and cartridge are disposed of. In some cases, a user can simply throw away the entire pen and start with a new one the next time.

Insulin Pumps

Another option is the insulin pump, a device about the size of a small cell phone. A relatively new device, it is usually attached outside the body, though some actually implant under the skin. In both cases, a computer-controlled device monitors the blood glucose level and releases the appropriate amount of insulin as needed. Insulin is delivered through a plastic tube tipped by a cannula (similar to a needle, but of soft plastic, not metal). The cannula is often implanted into the abdomen.

The proper amount is delivered discontinuously 24-hours per day whenever the monitor senses insulin is needed. This method results in a very accurate and timely management of blood glucose level.

Other delivery methods are still being tried, some of which work reasonably well.

Pills and Inhalers

Pills are convenient, but enzymes in the stomach tend to degrade the insulin so this method is still being perfected. Recently, new coatings have been devised that may make oral insulin delivery viable.

Nasal inhalers suffer from similar problems in delivering insulin to the bloodstream, and also tend to cause nasal irritation. Oral inhalers seem to work somewhat better, though there are still some possible side effects, such as coughing and mouth dryness. They’re an option for some, nonetheless.

More advanced forms of treatment are still being researched, including repairing the basic problem by transplanting pancreas cells and gene therapy. But until those bear fruit, these options provide the diabetic with safe, convenient and generally painless choices.

Diabetes – Minimizing Effects of Diabetes

Diabetes – Minimizing Effects of Diabetes

Diabetes can present two main categories of problems, in the form of short term ill-effects and longer term harm. Minimizing both areas requires discipline.

Rapid spikes or dips in blood glucose level can result in several unpleasant effects: dizziness, disorientation, muscle weakness, nausea and others. For some diabetics, it’s very difficult to prevent this from happening at some time. But there are practices that can improve the odds.

Regular and careful monitoring is a must. It’s no picnic to endure a finger prick three times a day. For those who simply can’t muster the will, it is worthwhile to look into some of the newer glucose monitoring devices that don’t require it.

Some contain tiny, powerful lasers that create a hole through which blood oozes. They produce only a mild tingling sensation. One recent device senses glucose level through the skin using an infrared beam, requiring no blood sample at all.

The goal is to keep the glucose-insulin balance as close to normal levels as possible. Non-diabetics have a fasting glucose level under about 99 mg/dL. Even after a heavy meal, when glucose may rise to over 200 mg/dL, insulin is released which brings it back down within a couple of hours. That means that keeping the glucose level right isn’t so much achieving a static number as maintaining the correct dynamic balance.

Part of a long-term glucose monitoring strategy should encompass regular physician visits with a quarterly A1C test. Several tests exist to measure blood glucose level at a given time. The A1C test provides a picture averaged over a period of months. The name comes from HbA1c, an abbreviation for glycated hemoglobin.

Hemoglobin molecules in the red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues. The extra glucose in the bloodstream of a diabetic causes that hemoglobin to get glycated. That effect persists and allows an A1C test to measure the accumulated result.

Long term the effects will accumulate, good or bad. Over 10-15 years or longer, many diabetes patients of the past would endure blindness, kidney damage, nerve damage and other ill health effects. That no longer has to be the case. With contemporary understanding of the disease and modern technology it’s possible to reduce the odds of those effects nearly to those without the disease.

Exercise and diet are two key elements for the overwhelming majority of diabetes sufferers to help achieve the right glucose-insulin balance.

Keeping body fat low through proper diet and exercise will help. Body fat plays a role in how the body reacts to glucose levels, as well as affecting hormone production and release. While the mechanisms are still being investigated, many studies show there is a clear correlation between body fat and the severity of diabetes effects, as well.

Proper weight and body fat maintenance will also help keep blood pressure at the right level. Chronic high blood pressure is one of the major elements in increasing the risk of common diabetes problems: heart attack and stroke, eye and nerve damage, and others.

With diligence a diabetic can lead a normal life, one very much like those fortunate enough not to have the condition. A little attention a few times a day can lead to not having to pay too much attention at all.

Diabetes – Genetic Risk Factors for Diabetes

Diabetes – Genetic Risk Factors for Diabetes

The causes of diabetes are complex and only partly understood. Complicating the picture even further is the fact that there are multiple types, each with its own risk factors. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the most common, encompassing about 97% or more of cases in the U.S. Each results from a combination of environmental and genetic influences.

Of those, Type 2 is far and away the most common, about 90% of cases.

Obesity is thought to be a major contributor to Type 2 diabetes. Being overweight is a good prototype for a cause since it is itself a combination of genetic background and lifestyle choices. Though the diet opted for and the amount of exercise one chooses to undertake are lifestyle choices, it’s still true that some individuals gain or shed weight more easily than others.

But there are many other diabetes risk factors, as well.

A history of diabetes during pregnancy contributes to part of the total risk. Just shy of 40% of women who develop diabetes during pregnancy (a type known as gestational diabetes) will later develop Type 2 diabetes. That typically occurs within 5-10 years after giving birth. Those who give birth to larger babies have a greater risk.

Glucose intolerance is another genetically influenced factor. Since Type 2 diabetes results not from underproduction of insulin (as in Type 1) but from inadequate use of it, it shouldn’t be surprising that glucose intolerance is a contributing circumstance. That glucose intolerance should exist is puzzling enough, since it’s a major source of the body’s energy. But genetic anomalies produce some unusual situations.

Ethnicity plays a role in whether or not an individual will develop Type 2 diabetes, though the reasons are not fully understood. Even after adjusting for lifestyle, Aboriginals, Africans, Latin Americans and some Asian groups are at higher risk. The profile varies between 1.5-2 times the incidence among Caucasians, according to one broad Canadian study. Oddly, though, the risk of Type 1 diabetes is much higher among Caucasians than any other race.

Having high blood pressure raises the odds, too. That again is partly a lifestyle (chiefly, diet and exercise) choice but it has a strong genetic aspect as well. There’s a strong correlation between those with high blood pressure and those who will develop diabetes. Similarly, high cholesterol levels increase the risk. Over 40% of those with diabetes have higher than average levels of cholesterol in the blood.

But simple family medical circumstance is probably the largest genetic risk factor for diabetes.

An individual with a parent or sibling who has Type 1 diabetes has him or herself a risk 10-20 times higher than average. For a newborn baby with a parent who has Type 1 diabetes the odds are 1 in 25, or 4% if the mother gives birth before age 25. Over age 25, the risk is 1%, about the same as the general population. The odds rise again to about 10% if either parent contracted diabetes before age 11.

The genetic risk factors of contracting diabetes are still an active area of research. Fortunately, while in generations past there was nothing one could do to influence them, modern genetic treatments hold out promise of altering even these odds.

Diabetes – Possible Complications From Diabetes

Diabetes – Possible Complications From Diabetes

One of the possible tragic complications of diabetes is the effects the disease has on various organs and body functions. They cover a wide range of systems and conditions. Fortunately, most are treatable and/or manageable.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, for example, is a common side effect of diabetes medications. Since diabetes is characterized by too much glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia), treating it can produce too low a level (hypoglycemia). It can be mild and adjustable by changing diet or medications. But careful monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential to proper management.

Heart Disease and Stroke

Cardiovascular problems are more likely among those who suffer from diabetes. High glucose levels can gradually lead to increases of fatty deposits on blood vessels, constricting flow and possibly leading to atherosclerosis (clogging or hardening of the blood vessels). That increases the odds of heart attack or stroke. Those who have diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke, and often at a younger age than average.

Here again, though, the condition can be managed to minimize the odds of heart disease or stroke. An appropriate exercise regimen can help keep your cardiovascular in optimal condition. A heart healthy diet will reduce the odds of atherosclerosis. A good diet also reduces the chances of a stroke. In some cases, simple aspirin treatments may be helpful.

Eye Problems

A variety of eye problems are possible complications of diabetes. Indeed, one of the common symptoms is blurry vision. Excess glucose in the blood draws fluid out of tissues, including the lenses. That makes it more difficult to correctly focus. But there are other areas of the eye that can be affected, as well.

The retina (the lining on the back of the eye) may have its proper function impaired. As a side effect of elevated blood pressure caused by diabetes, small blood vessels in the eye can be damaged. That harms the retina. It may manifest itself in the form of blurry vision, but it can also appear as rings around lights or dark spots in your field of vision.

Careful monitoring of glucose levels and blood pressure can help minimize the odds of eye problems from diabetes. Here again, an appropriate diet, including lowering cholesterol and a good exercise routine will keep blood pressure under control.

Nervous System

One of the follow on effects of continual high blood pressure may be damage to the nervous system. When blood vessels are impaired they’re less efficient at performing that essential function. Blood oxygenates the nerve cells. When deprived they will be impaired.

Controlling blood pressure will help reduce the odds of nervous system problems.

Kidney

Kidneys help filter the blood to eliminate waste products and remove toxins. Diabetes can impair that filtering function. That may lead to protein leaking out of the kidneys and into the urine where it’s no longer available to the body for useful purposes. On the other hand, since the filtering function is less efficient, some waste products may go back into the bloodstream rather than being eliminated.

Keeping blood glucose level and blood pressure to the right level can help reduce the odds of kidney problems. In some cases, special medication (such as an ACE, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor or ARB, angiotensin receptor blocker) may be appropriate.

In all cases, the best course is to seek professional guidance for diagnosis and the appropriate treatments.

Diabetes – Monitoring Systems for Diabetics

Diabetes – Monitoring Systems for Diabetics

Tracking the level of glucose in the blood is vital for proper diabetes management. Fortunately, the devices available to do that today are easy to use and provide many features.

One of the earliest self-test systems was developed in the mid-1970s. Then as now they used a sample of blood that is chemically analyzed by the device. Since then, they’ve gotten smaller, more accurate and require less blood.

Monitors now extrude a small test strip coated with chemicals used to perform the test. A small blood sample is provided, usually by pricking the finger with a lancet. The blood drop is smeared on the strip, then fed into a hand-held device. In a few seconds, it provides a readout of the current glucose level.

There are several pros and cons to all current devices.

They’re convenient, but they do require a blood sample drawn from the body. That can be uncomfortable and is one of the main reasons that many people will only use them once per day, rather than the recommended three times daily.

They can give inaccurate readings if they’re not calibrated and maintained properly. They need to be cleaned, in order to prevent old blood and chemicals from contaminating the device and throwing off the readings. But that’s generally easy to do and the results are typically as accurate as a professional test from a lab, or nearly so.

Many contemporary devices far exceed the features available from their older cousins.

While having the convenience and timeliness of a home test is a great benefit, there are other desirable attributes for a good device. Many today will store numerous test results taken over time. That helps compare levels on an ongoing basis, providing better glucose level management. Some can download results to a PC where the data can be easily graphed, making the tracking process even more valuable.

Several models allow the user to draw blood from areas other than the finger. That gives the fingers a rest, since continual pricking can lead to excessive scarring and loss of sensitivity. It can also lead to running out of fingers to use and greater difficulty drawing blood, leading to additional discomfort. Alternative devices, if approved for use by your physician, can draw blood from the hands, arms and elsewhere.

But there are even better diabetic monitoring devices available on the market today.

Some use a laser to make a small, painless hole in the skin. A droplet of blood oozes out for smearing onto a test strip. It produces only a slight tingling sensation in the finger during the test. That eliminates the need for needles and is more sanitary and safer, as well as reducing discomfort.

Some work even while you sleep. No one wants to wake up in the middle of the night to prick a finger and run a test strip through the device for a readout. But the body continues to function twenty-four hours a day. Glucose levels can rise or fall at any time. Diabetics can buy a watch that monitors glucose level and alerts the wearer by an alarm if a threshold is exceeded.

Still more advanced monitoring systems for diabetics require drawing no blood at all. It senses the glucose level through the skin by use of an infrared beam. In development since the mid 1990s, it was recently approved by the FDA for home use.

Diabetes – Standard Diagnoses For Diabetes

Diabetes – Standard Diagnoses For Diabetes

Diabetes is characterized by abnormally elevated blood glucose levels over a period of time. Insulin is either produced in too low amount (Type 1 diabetes) or not used properly (Type 2 diabetes). Insulin is the principle hormone that helps the cells take up glucose. Since the amount is higher than normal, it’s possible to take different tests that detect them.

One of the standard tests is called a ‘Fasting Plasma Glucose’ (FPG) test. The patient foregos eating for at least 8 hours (usually nothing after midnight). The test is administered by drawing blood and measuring the results. A normal fasting glucose level will be lower than about 99 mg/dL.

Levels between 100-125 mg/dL are an indication of a condition professionals call ‘pre-diabetes’. In this case, the person doesn’t have diabetes but is very likely to develop it within a few years unless management of glucose levels is undertaken by diet, exercise and possibly medication.

A level of 126 mg/dL or higher is a very strong indicator of full blown diabetes. When it’s seen doctors will typically recommend other tests to aid in confirming the diagnosis. One of those is called an ‘Oral Glucose Tolerance Test’ (OGTT).

A patient who has fasted drinks a high glucose liquid (75 grams, not tasty but not harmful) and blood is drawn to test. The glucose levels are measured, then the test is repeated at intervals, usually two hours later, then three, then four. Sometimes the test interval is 30 min, 1 hour, 2 hours and so on.

A 2-hour glucose level of 139 mg/dL or below is considered normal. Insulin is released by the body in reaction to the high glucose and the cells take it up. But when the number is still 140-199 mg/dL two hours later, this is an indication that inadequate insulin is released or its normal action is being hindered. That suggests pre-diabetes. When the number is 200 mg/dL or higher, diabetes is indicated.

In the latter case, physicians will often recommend repeating the test at a later date to confirm the diagnosis. Many things can temporarily alter the body’s blood glucose levels and its ability to regulate them. For example, taking steroids significantly alters blood glucose levels, as do certain diuretics. Pregnancy is one common example of a condition affecting glucose levels.

Another type of diabetes, one that occurs in about 3% of pregnancies (usually during 24-28 weeks gestation), is known as gestational diabetes. The OGTT is used to detect that as well. The test will be administered four times and the blood glucose level measured at each instance.

Another test commonly used is called the ‘Random Plasma Glucose’ (RPG) test. In this case a blood test is done without fasting. When the level is 200 mg/dL or higher it can indicate the presence of diabetes. Common symptoms are taken into account as well, such as unusually frequent urination, abnormal continued thirst even after drinking water and others.

No single test conclusively proves that a person has diabetes. Since the condition is potentially serious, though often managed with minimal lifestyle interruption, a battery of tests should be used before reaching a confirmed diagnosis.

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