Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Diabetes, or diabetes mellitus, is a chronic condition where blood sugar (glucose) levels are too high due to the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to severe complications.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when the body cannot regulate blood sugar properly. The different types of diabetes include:

Type 1 Diabetes

• An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

• Typically diagnosed in children and young adults.

• Requires insulin therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes

• More common and primarily caused by insulin resistance.

• Often linked to obesity, poor diet, and lack of exercise.

• Can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications.

Gestational Diabetes

• Occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin.

• May resolve after childbirth but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Prediabetes

• Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.

• Reversible with lifestyle changes.

What are the Symptoms of Diabetes?

Common signs of diabetes include: Frequent urination (especially at night). Increased thirst. Unexplained weight loss. Fatigue and weakness. Blurred vision. Slow-healing cuts and wounds. Frequent infections (e.g., thrush, urinary tract infections). Fruity-smelling breath (a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis)

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

What Causes Diabetes?

The causes vary by type:

• Type 1 Diabetes: Genetic and environmental triggers.

• Type 2 Diabetes: Poor diet, obesity, physical inactivity, genetic predisposition.

• Gestational Diabetes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Who is at Risk of Diabetes?

You may be at higher risk if you:

• Have a family history of diabetes.

• Are overweight or obese.

• Lead a sedentary lifestyle.

• Have high blood pressure or cholesterol.

• Are over 40 years old.

• Have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Have had gestational diabetes.

How is Diabetes Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose diabetes with:

• HbA1c Test (measures average blood sugar over 3 months)

• Fasting Blood Sugar Test

• Glucose Tolerance Test

• Random Blood Sugar Test

How is Diabetes Treated?

Type 1 Diabetes Treatment

• Insulin therapy (injections or pumps)

• Regular blood sugar monitoring

• Carbohydrate counting and balanced nutrition

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

• Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management

• Medications:

  • Metformin (first-line treatment)

  • Other oral drugs (e.g., gliclazide, alogliptin)

  • Injectable therapies (e.g., exenatide, liraglutide)

• In some cases, insulin therapy may be needed

Gestational Diabetes Treatment

• Healthy diet and physical activity

• Insulin if necessary

Can Diabetes be Reversed?

• Prediabetes: Often reversible with diet, exercise, and weight loss.

• Type 2 Diabetes: Can sometimes go into remission through significant lifestyle changes and medical interventions.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical advice if you:

• Experience persistent symptoms.

• Have a family history of diabetes.

• Are overweight and have other risk factors.

• Are pregnant and showing symptoms of gestational diabetes.

Get Medical Advice and Support

For personalized treatment, book an online consultation with a TravelDoctorEU professional: TravelDoctorEU.

For in-depth details on diabetes management, visit:

• What We Treat

• WebMD – Diabetes

• Mayo Clinic – Diabetes

FAQ About Diabetes

Q: What is the main difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes? A: Type 1 is an autoimmune disease where the body doesn’t produce insulin. Type 2 occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin.

Q: Can you prevent diabetes? A: Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, but type 2 diabetes can often be delayed or prevented with a healthy lifestyle.

Q: How long does it take to reverse prediabetes? A: With diet and exercise, it can take weeks to months to return blood sugar levels to a normal range.

Q: What foods should diabetics avoid? A: High-sugar foods, processed carbohydrates, saturated fats, and excessive alcohol.

By staying informed and proactive, diabetes can be managed effectively, ensuring a healthier life.