Translating Knowledge into Empowerment.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a group of common endocrine diseases characterized by sustained high blood sugar levels. There are several types of diabetes, but they all involve either the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the body’s body becoming unresponsive to insulin. Here are the key points:
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes: This type typically starts during childhood or adolescence. It occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Type 2 Diabetes: The more common type, it can develop at any age but is more prevalent in people over 40. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin injections are used for management.
Gestational Diabetes: This occurs during pregnancy and may go away after childbirth.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on blood sugar levels:
• Thirst: Feeling more thirsty than usual.
• Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate often.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight unintentionally.
• Ketones in Urine: Ketones (by-products of muscle and fat breakdown) are due to insufficient insulin.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak.
• Other Signs: Blurry vision, slow-healing sores, mood changes, and increased infection susceptibility.
• Health Risks: Chronic high blood sugar can lead to complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, eye problems, and kidney disease.
Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial. If you suspect diabetes, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Knowledge and proactive steps can help prevent or manage this condition effectively.
Our Programs
Our Hope Alive Foundation Inc. programs fuse comprehensive education with practical strategy, fostering an environment where managing diabetes evolves from challenging to achievable. Experience transformative learning, gain control over your health, and step into a supportive community that empowers you at every stage of the journey.
