going deeper

More than 10% of the US population currently has diabetes. This November is Diabetes Awareness Month, to maintain long term health it’s important that you understand diabetes and how you can lower your potential risk. Ogechi Anyaoku, an internal medicine doctor at Adventist HealthCare has some useful information on the disease and ways to take care of your own health after a diagnosis.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease that impacts your body’s ability to monitor and control the amount of glucose in the blood system. There are three main types of diabetes, including type 1, type 2 and gestational. Each type of diabetes is caused by different contributing factors. If left untreated diabetes can have a serious impact on your long-term health.

What are some of the symptoms for diabetes?

As with many diseases, diabetes has several distinct symptoms to be on the lookout for-

Extensive feelings of thirst

Unexpected weight loss

Extended periods of exhaustion

Strange and unusual mood changes

Could you tell us more about the different types of diabetes?

Type one diabetes is typically diagnosed in children, teens and young adults. Regular rounds of insulin are required to keep your diabetes under control. Unlike other forms of diabetes, type 1 cannot be prevented.

Type two diabetes is regularly diagnosed in adults. To determine your risk, you need to regularly receive blood tests and be aware of the known symptoms. Type two diabetes can be prevented by following a good health routine and receiving regular exercise.

Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women who hadn’t previously been diagnosed with diabetes. It can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes later in life.

When a patient is diagnosed, what can they do to keep their diabetes under control?

• Eat a balanced diet
• Stay on track with your insulin and blood testing routine
• Attend your regularly scheduled doctor appointments
• Exercise
• Limit foods with excessive sugar

What are some of health recommendations you can do to help limit your risk of developing diabetes?

• Receive regular exercise
• Eat a balanced diet
• Be an active participant in your health, ask questions when things don’t seem right
• Go for your annual physical