Diabetes is one of the most dangerous diseases. It can not only ruin the quality of life but also make a person disabled. Diabetes has a destructive effect on tissues and all blood vessels. Severe forms of this disease can lead to eye defects and limb amputation.

However, the disease does not appear on its own. For its appearance a complex of predisposing factors is required. Understanding the processes of diabetes development helps to timely recognize the disease and in some cases even prevent it.

Types of diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes:

type 1 - insulin-dependent and type 2 - acquired or non-insulin dependent.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus: it develops due to lack of production of the hormone insulin by the pancreas. Type 1 diabetes develops as a result of a genetic predisposition: if only the father had the disease, then the child's risk of developing is low (3-7%). if the mother: the risk of inheritance to the child is not more than 10%; both parents - then the risk of transmission of the disease to children increases to 70%.

Type 2 diabetes is almost 80% inherited. even if only one parent has the disease. Previously, acquired diabetes was more common in adulthood. Today, there are more and more cases when this disease is diagnosed in children.

Factors influencing the development of diabetes

*Overweight and obesity

*Diseases of the endocrine glands

*Postponed viral infections

*Frequent stress

*Frequent medication Sedentary lifestyle

Symptoms of diabetes

Type I diabetes usually occurs during childhood or adolescence. In this case, the symptoms of the disease appear within several days. With inulin-dependent diabetes, a person can fall into a diabetic coma, so this condition requires urgent hospitalization.

Type II diabetes does not manifest itself for a long time.

Symptoms to look out for:

*Constant thirst

*Frequent urination

*Weakness

*tiredness

*Deterioration of vision and memory

* Constantly hungry

*Weight problems

*Slow healing of wounds and cuts

*Skin infections

*dry skin

*Numbness in the legs

*Thrush in women

Who should you contact if you suspect diabetes?

An endocrinologist will help diagnose diabetes. Moreover, the earlier the correct diagnosis is made, the easier it is to overcome the disease. As a rule, it will be necessary to undergo a series of examinations: pass a urine test for sugar content, undergo special blood tests for glucose concentration, etc. With insulin-dependent diabetes, it will be necessary to constantly monitor blood glucose levels. Special tests and glucometers allow you to do this at home without any problems. In type I diabetes, you will have to regularly inject insulin. In addition, this type of diabetes is corrected by diet, drugs that lower blood sugar levels, and physical activity.

How to protect yourself from diabetes?

In order not to provoke the onset of this insidious disease, it is very important to regularly carry out prevention even before the diagnosis is made. It is necessary:

1. Lead an active lifestyle and control your weight:

This can be walking, gymnastic exercises, swimming, cycling, skating. Any active activities that are also enjoyable. Diabetes is directly linked to obesity. Any physical activity can help lower blood sugar and reduce the need for insulin.

2. Eat right:

Eat foods high in dietary fiber, which can help normalize bowel function and lower cholesterol levels. These foods include all fruits and vegetables, legumes, dairy products, nuts, and others. Reduce the use of flour products, sweets, pasta. Eat only whole grain bread.

3. Get enough sleep:

A rested body will not require a lot of glucose, so getting enough sleep is essential to prevent diabetes.

4. Don't smoke and avoid stress:

Stress, smoking reduce the body's resistance to diabetes and are one of the reasons for the manifestation of diabetes.

5. Monitor your blood glucose levels:

if you are over 40. A sugar test is especially necessary for those who have a tendency to be overweight and lead a sedentary lifestyle.