FAQ and Answers for Diabetes
What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus?
Type 1 diabetes is seen in early childhood and results from the destruction of the beta-cells (which produces insulin) in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes usually occurs later in life in individuals with a genetic predisposition for the condition. In type 2 diabetes, the insulin production is normal but the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin.
Who are more prone to type 2 diabetes?
Elderly people, obese people, individuals with a family history of diabetes and gestational diabetes and people with impaired glucose tolerance are more prone to diabetes.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition seen during pregnancy. Individuals who develop gestational diabetes have greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes in future.
What are the commonest symptoms of diabetes?
The commonly seen symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst and hunger, unexplained weight loss, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, fatigue, dry mouth, recurrent skin infections and sores or ulcers that are slow to heal.
What are the health problems caused by uncontrolled diabetes?
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to many health problems such as heart disease, cataract and blindness, kidney failure, delayed wound healing and lower-extremity gangrene leading to amputations.
Can diabetes be prevented?
Type 2 diabetes can be prevented with lifestyle modifications, which include regular exercise, healthy eating habits and weight reduction.
What are the treatments for diabetes?
The standard treatment for type 1 diabetes is insulin injections. For type 2 diabetes, healthy eating, physical activity and administration of oral antidiabetic medications and/or insulin are recommended. All the above measures should be followed with regular glucose monitoring.