Diabetes: Types, Symptoms and Causes

Diabetes is commonly known as “sugar” in some countries (Pakistan, India etc). It is a chronic (long-lasting)  medical condition in which your blood sugar is too high. Blood sugar is major source of energy for body cells. Insulin controls the transfer of blood sugar from blood streams to body cells and keeps the level of blood sugar in blood in normal range. In diabetes,  human body either doesn’t make required amount of insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin it makes which causes high sugar level in blood.

Blood Sugar Ranges

The values for normal fasting blood glucose concentration are between 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) and 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L). When fasting blood glucose is between 100 to 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L), health experts recommend changes in lifestyle. If fasting blood glucose is 126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L) or higher on two separate tests, diabetes is diagnosed. This situation of Increased fasting blood glucose concentration is known as hyperglycemia. The condition in which an individual has low fasting blood glucose concentration  – below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), is called hypoglycemia. (Ref: WHO)

Types, Causes and Symptoms of Diabetes

The most common types of diabetes are Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.

1. Type 1 Diabetes:
   • Cause: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors, possibly triggered by viral infections.
   • Symptoms: Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes typically develop rapidly and include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, extreme hunger, fatigue, and blurred vision. If left untreated, it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition.
2. Type 2 Diabetes:
   • Cause: Type 2 diabetes is primarily a lifestyle-related condition, and it is often linked to obesity, lack of physical activity, and genetics. In this type, the body becomes resistant to insulin, and the pancreas may not produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
   • Symptoms: Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes may develop gradually and include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound healing, and recurring infections. Many people with Type 2 diabetes are initially asymptomatic.
3. Gestational Diabetes:
   • Cause: Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet increased hormonal demands. It usually resolves after childbirth, but women who have had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
   • Symptoms: Gestational diabetes often does not present noticeable symptoms but is typically diagnosed through routine glucose screening during pregnancy.

Other less common forms of diabetes include monogenic diabetes and secondary diabetes, which result from specific genetic mutations or other medical conditions, respectively.

The best treatment for diabetic patients is to keep their blood sugar levels within a target range to prevent complications. Health experts recommend dietary changes, regular physical activity, medication (such as insulin or oral medications), and monitoring blood glucose levels. Diabetes can lead to serious complications like heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision problems if not managed properly. Therefore, it’s essential for individuals with diabetes to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health expert with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of content found on this website. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.

References

• Somogyi, Michael. “Determination of blood sugar.” Journal of Biological Chemistry 160 (1945): 69-73.
• Han, Xiaoyu, et al. “A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Hydrogel to Promote Vascularization via Blood Sugar Reduction for Wound Healing.” Advanced Functional Materials 33.14 (2023): 2213008.