Types of Diabetes

Diabetes comes in a variety of forms, each with distinct causes and traits:

1. Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabeter is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system unintentionally targets the pancreatic cells that produce insulin. This type usually develops in childhood or adolescence, and people with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy.
2. Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form of diabetes, often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor diet, and physical inactivity. In this kind, the body either produces insufficient amounts of insulin or becomes resistant to it, which raises blood sugar levels.
3. Gestational Diabetes: Being pregnant causes gestational diabetes, which typically is going away after giving birth. Then again, it increases the risk of type 2 diabetes in later life.
4. Prediabetes: Blood sugar levels that are higher than normal but not high enough to be categorized as diabetes are known as prediabetes. It serves as a warning sign for the potential development of Type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Zia Ul Hasan Diabetes Specialist

How Diabetes Affects the Body

The effects of diabetes can be widespread, impacting various organs and systems. If left uncontrolled, high blood sugar levels can cause serious complications over time. Here’s a closer look at how diabetes affects the body:

1. Cardiovascular System Diabeter significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. High glucose levels can damage blood vessels and lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), making it harder for blood to flow freely.
2. Nervous System Diabetic neuropathy is the term for nerve damage brought on by persistently elevated blood sugar. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, or pain, particularly in the hands and feet. In severe cases, nerve damage can impair mobility and lead to ulcers or infections.
3. Kidneys The kidneys filter waste from the blood, but high blood sugar can damage this filtering system, leading to diabetic nephropathy. This condition can progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a transplant.
4. One of the most important causes of blindness and vision in loss is diabetes. High glucose levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, a condition called diabetic retinopathy. Additionally, it may raise the risk of glaucoma and cataracts.
5. Immune System Diabetes impairs immunity, which makes it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. High sugar levels provide a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, leading to frequent infections, especially in the skin and urinary tract.
6. Digestive System Nerve damage caused by diabetes can affect digestion, leading to gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying). This can result in bloating, nausea, and erratic blood sugar levels.
7. Skin People with diabetes are prone to skin issues such as dryness, itching, and infections. Poor circulation and nerve damage can make wounds heal more slowly, increasing the risk of complications.
8. Mental Health Living with diabetes can take a toll on mental health, contributing to stress, anxiety, and depression. The constant monitoring of blood sugar levels and the fear of complications can be overwhelming. Book An Appointment