Diabetes

Diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus) is a condition which is characterized by a troubled metabolism and unusually high blood pressure resulting from inadequate levels of hormone insulin. Excessive urine production due to high sugar levels and persistent thirst are just some of the symptoms. These symptoms occur in attempt to compensate for the increased urine production. Symptoms are less severe if the blood sugar is regulated properly.

There are three types of diabetes that the World Health Organization recognizes; Gestational (occurs during pregnancy) Type 1 and Type 2. All forms have different causes and are distributed differently throughout the population.

All forms are due to the beta cells of the pancreas being unable to produce adequate amounts of insulin to prevent Hyperglycemia; a condition in which a large amount of glucose distributes amongst the blood plasma. Type 1 diabetes is defined as the autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic beta cells.

Type 2 is defined as insulin resistance in the tissues, requiring excessive amounts of insulin, resulting in diabetes if this demand is not met. Gestational Diabetes is very close to Type 2, also involving insulin resistance; the erratic changing hormones during pregnancy can cause diabetes for those who are already genetically predisposed.

Diabetes types 1 and 2 are what doctor's call, "chronic conditions", whereas Gestational diabetes typically ends with the birth of the child. All types of diabetes are treatable since the availability of insulin in the 1920's.

Dietary and lifestyle adjustments must be made in order to maintain healthy levels. Type 1 can be kept under control with insulin injections, whereas Type 2 can be managed with a various combination injections, dietary treatments, and tablets. Insulin, which was originally created from porcine pancreas, is now often genetically engineered by man.

Despite the availability of insulin, Diabetes is still a major cause of death. Smoking, obesity, high cholesterol and a lack of exercise all add to the harmful effects of Diabetes. Diabetes management changes with age, glucose tolerance decreases as we get older.

Keeping a healthy lifestyle, such as eating right and exercising can spare those without the disease and help those already suffering.