Diabetes And Your Family
There are between two and four million diabetics of all ages in South Africa and the disease is reaching epidemic status in this country. It is a serious illness, but with proper knowledge and lifestyle changes, you can still live a full, happy life.
The Medical Lowdown
What is Diabetes? Diabetes interferes with the way the body uses food. In people who do not have diabetes, carbohydrates are changed into glucose, one of the body’s major sources of energy. The hormone Insulin must be present to allow the body to turn glucose into energy. People with diabetes either cannot produce enough Insulin or cannot properly use the Insulin that is produced. This means that the glucose that a diabetic’s body produces cannot be used for energy, and it builds up in their blood and tissue.
How Is It Diagnosed And Is There A Cure?
A simple test to measure your glucose levels can be done at your local pharmacist, clinic, hospital or Doc’s offices. Unfortunately, there is no cure.
Are there different types of diabetes? There are three main types of diabetes:
Type 1 or Insulin-dependent, diabetes is genetic and usually starts in people under the age of 30, often affecting young children. Type 1 diabetes must be managed with Insulin injections and a careful diet and exercise programme.
Type 2 diabetes is caused when there is either not enough Insulin or it does not work properly. Approximately 85–90 per cent of all people with diabetes are Type 2 and many people who have this condition are undiagnosed. It can be managed with healthy eating, exercise and medication.
Type 3 Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy. Both mother and child have an increased risk of developing diabetes in the future if this occurs. To control this form of diabetes, it is essential that the mother reduce the amount of simple sugars she eats.
What Are The Symptoms?
The symptoms are similar for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes – the most common are:
- Frequent urination
- Extreme thirst
- Constant hunger
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Sudden weight loss
- Slowed healing of skin infections
I Have Diabetes, What Now?
By losing weight and exercising, Type 2 diabetes can be well-controlled and medication may be reduced, or in rare cases, even stopped for a period of time. A controlled eating plan (devised by a doctor or dietician), increased exercise, blood glucose monitoring and medication will also help manage Type 1 diabetes. It requires discipline and self-control but there is no reason why anyone with diabetes cannot live a full and perfectly normal life. However, it is important to have as much knowledge as possible, so always share any concerns and questions with your doctor or pharmacist.
