What is Diabetes?

Chronic health condition

Insufficient insulin produced /used
Affects sugar breakdown

Introduction

Food eaten converted to glucose

Glucose produces energy
Insulin breaks down glucose
Diabetics do not sufficiently produce or use insulin
Causes blood sugar build-up in blood

Types

Type I diabetes

Mostly occurs in children/young adult

Insulin production affected

Type II diabetes

Mostly occur in adults

Body is partially/ fully insulin resistant
Blood sugar level increases

Diabetes

Gestational diabetes

Occurs in pregnant women

Causes problems in mother and
baby

Symptoms

Increased thirst
Excessive urination
Weight loss
Weakness
Vision changes
Dry skin / dehydration
 Numbness in hands/ feet

Diagnosis

Fasting blood glucose level> 126 mg/dL

Random Blood Glucose> 200 mg/dL

Complications of diabetes

Diabetic Retinopathy (eye)

Kidney Disease
Heart Disease and Stroke
Nerve Disease
Impotence (sexual disorder)

Treatment
Type I diabetes

Daily Insulin injections

Insulin cannot be taken as a pill

Type II diabetes

Healthy diet and exercise brings down glucose level.

Some people need diabetic medicine or insulin

Medications lower blood glucose level

Sulfonylurea drugs & Meglitinedes: Produces insulin in the pancreas

Biguanides: decreases glucose in liver
- glucosidase inhibitors: Slows the absorption of starch
Consult a diabetologist or general physician