By: Wanda I. Orengo
World Diabetes Day is observed every November 14 . The date aims to raise awareness of this condition and, at the same time, educate the public. Experts note that, although it is hereditary in some cases, it is most often caused by an unhealthy lifestyle.
According to the Puerto Rico Department of Health, this condition is the third leading cause of death in Puerto Rico. It also notes that 1 in 6 Puerto Ricans suffers from it.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin is responsible for regulating the sugar needed to produce energy in the body. If insulin does not reach the cells, energy is lost and sugar builds up in the blood until it reaches harmful levels. This leads to diabetes, which is divided into two types: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is less common. It can develop at any age, but it is most often diagnosed in children, adolescents, or young adults. In this condition, the body produces little or no insulin. The exact cause is unknown.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is more common and almost always develops in adulthood. With type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin and does not use it as it should. The World Health Organization states that 90% of type 2 diabetes cases are caused by being overweight and physical inactivity. Major risk factors include being overweight or obese, having a family history of the disease, being over 40 years old, having high blood pressure or high cholesterol, and smoking.
The symptoms of diabetes include blurred vision, excessive thirst, fatigue, frequent urination, hunger, and weight loss. See your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Furthermore, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, if you have diabetes, you are at risk of developing other health conditions, as this disease can damage your eyes, kidneys, nerves, skin, heart, and blood vessels. It is important to note other serious complications, such as those listed below:
- Your feet and skin may develop sores and infections. The infection can also cause pain, itching, or oozing on your feet, legs, and other areas.
- It can make it harder to control your blood pressure and cholesterol. This can lead to a heart attack, stroke, and other health problems. It can also make it harder for blood to flow to your legs and feet.
- Nerves in the body can bedamaged, causing pain, burning, tingling, loss of sensation, and, in men, difficulty achieving an erection.
- Difficulty digesting food. You may experience constipation or loose, watery stools.
- High blood sugar and other health issues can lead to kidney damage. Your kidneys may not function as well as they used to, and they may even stop working altogether.
- It can weaken your immune system.
- Development of depression.
- Some women with diabetes may have irregular periods and trouble getting pregnant.
- It increases the risk of dementia.
- The risk of bone diseases, including osteoporosis, increases.
That's why it's important to see your doctor to take preventive measures and manage the condition. If you already have it, don't worry—just take charge and look after your health with a healthy diet, exercise, and medication.
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