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Back in the 17th century, Greeks defined the name Diabetes Mellitus as to siphon honey; the most common symptom being the sweet taste of urine. This metabolic disease has since affected over 30 million USA citizens; a stunning 33% of the population. Diabetes itself is a deadly disease, but if left unmanaged, it could lead to even more serious complications and hastily death. So what is there to know about it?

An Introduction to Diabetes 

Diabetes is a medical condition that affects the body's metabolism specifically, the levels of blood sugar. While glucose is essential for bodily functions such as energy production, the building of muscles, and fueling of the brain; high sugar levels can be harmful to the body.

Types of Diabetes

Diabetes can occur in various types which also explains its cause. Below are the three common types of Diabetes;

    Type 1 - this is where your body lacks sufficient insulin in the body due to the immune system fighting the insulin-producing hormones in the pancreas. As a result, this juvenile diabetes tends to demand artificial insulin to be introduced to one's body.     

Type 2 - the common of the three types; in this case, the body may produce enough insulin for the body, but the body, in turn, doesn't respond to it effectively. Many people who develop type two have previously shown signs of pre-diabetes.     

Gestational- occurs in women during pregnancy. Not all will experience it, but for those who do, the insulin production may be insufficient causing less in your bloodstream. Hence gestational diabetes There are other types including monogenetic and cystic fibrosis diabetes, but they are rare.

Symptoms of Diabetes 

Different types of diabetes may show different signs but general symptoms may include;

•    Fatigue

•    Weight loss

•    Constant urination

•    Ketones in urine

•    Increased thirst and hunger

•    Frequent infection and sores

Risk Factors for Diabetes 

Like many other medical conditions, risk factors are a major indicator for the condition. Here are some of the greatest risk factors.

•    Weight - obesity has been linked with type two diabetes.

•    Genetic reasons such as HDL, high-density lipoproteins.

•    History of PCOS, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

•    Race

•    Age - older than 45 years.

•    Environmental factors 

Management and Prevention 

Diabetes has been known to have very critical complications that can affect your quality of life in the long term. Some of these complications include;

•    Cardiovascular diseases

•    Nephropathy

•    Retinopathy

•    Neuropathy

•    Alzheimer's disease

•    Foot damage

•    Preeclampsia

•    Complications to the baby

With no clear medications for treatment, many doctors aim to control and clearly manage the diabetic patient for as long as possible. Here are a few recommendations by doctors.

•    Lifestyle changes - change in diet and regular exercises.

•    Refrain from alcohol and smoking.

•    Insulin medications- especially for type one diabetes patients.

•    Other drugs such as Metformin. Used to lower the blood sugar.

•    SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP -1 receptors.

•    Other self-monitoring tips.

It is vital to do regular blood glucose levels checks to stay on track with the body sugar levels. Also consulting nutritionists for diet advice can go a long way in controlling the medical condition.