Definition and Importance of Diabetes
DiabetesDiabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when blood sugar levels rise above normal levels due to the body not producing enough insulin hormone or cells not responding enough to insulin. Diabetes is a health problem that affects millions of people worldwide and seriously reduces the quality of life. Therefore, the management and treatment of diabetes is of great importance for both individuals and society.
Types of Diabetes
Diabetes is generally divided into four main types:
- Type 1 Diabetes: It is a type of insulin-dependent diabetes that usually occurs in childhood and adolescence. The body destroys the pancreatic cells that produce insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes: It is the most common type of diabetes and is usually seen in individuals over the age of 40. The body does not respond adequately to insulin or cannot produce enough insulin.
- Gestational Diabetes: It is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It usually disappears after birth, but carries the risk of Type 2 diabetes in the future.
- Other Types of Diabetes: These are types of diabetes that develop as a result of genetic disorders or the use of certain medications.
Modern Methods in Diabetes Treatment
Modern methods used in the treatment of diabetes have been developed to improve the quality of life of patients and keep blood sugar under control. These methods include:
- Smart Insulin: It is a system that continuously monitors blood sugar levels and automatically releases insulin when necessary. This method eliminates the need for Type 1 diabetics to constantly measure their blood sugar.
- Artificial Pancreas: It is a device located under the skin. It determines the amount of insulin required by observing situations such as eating, sleeping and exercise. This system significantly increases the quality of life of patients.
- Metabolic Surgery: It is generally an effective treatment option for individuals with Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Surgical intervention provides both weight control and blood sugar levels.
Things to Consider in Diabetes Management
In order for diabetic patients to live a healthy life, they need to pay attention to some important points. These include:
- Physical Activity: Performing appropriate physical activities under the supervision of a doctor helps balance blood sugar levels.
- Diet Plan: Implementation of a nutrition program tailored to individual needs prepared by a dietitian plays a critical role in diabetes management.
- Foot Health: Diabetic patients should pay special attention to their foot health. If there is any problem with the feet, a doctor should be consulted.
- Annual Checks: Having a general health check-up and eye examination at least once a year helps prevent complications.
- Dental health: Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day and regular dental check-ups should be performed.
- Alcohol and Smoking: Alcohol and smoking habits should be quit, and stress levels should be kept to a minimum.
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: It is important to monitor fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels regularly.
Complications of Diabetes
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Cardiovascular Diseases: People with diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Nerve Damage: Long-term high blood sugar can cause nerve damage, causing problems such as pain, numbness, and loss of sensation.
- Kidney Damage: Diabetes can affect kidney function, leading to diabetic nephropathy.
- Eye Problems: Diabetes can cause retinopathy and other eye diseases that can lead to vision loss.
Diabetes and Its Psychological Effects
Diabetes can have an impact not only on physical health but also on psychological health. Living with diabetes can trigger conditions such as stress, anxiety and depression. Therefore, it is important for diabetic patients to seek psychological support and pay attention to their emotional health.
As a result, the management and treatment of diabetes is of critical importance to improve the quality of life of individuals. In addition to modern treatment methods, the effects of diabetes can be reduced with lifestyle changes and regular health checks. Therefore, diabetic patients can achieve the best results by cooperating with specialist doctors and dietitians.
