Diabetes is a chronic disease where blood glucose levels are too high due to a lack of insulin or the body’s inability to use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas that controls blood sugar and allows glucose to be used as an energy source. Diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause damage to critical organs, blood vessels, and nerves.
TYPE 1 DIABETES
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and kills the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body no longer makes insulin or enough insulin to function. Type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in children, but can also be diagnosed in adults. Approximately 1.25 million American children and adults have type 1 diabetes.
TREATMENT FOR TYPE 1 DIABETES INCLUDES:
- Insulin injections
- Oral medication
- Making healthy diet choices
- Being physically active
- Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol
TYPE 2 DIABETES
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot use the insulin that is released by the pancreas. This insulin insensitivity, also called insulin resistance, causes sugar to build up in the blood. Initially the pancreas goes into overdrive, producing excess insulin to keep up with the increased glucose levels. Over time, however, the pancreas fails to keep up and other treatments will be necessary. About 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. It can occur at any age, but most often affects middle-aged or older people. People who are overweight or obese and inactive are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
TREATMENT FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES INCLUDES:
- Physical activity
- Healthy meal planning
- Weight loss
- Insulin injections
- Oral medications
- Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
GESTATIONAL DIABETES
Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy. Pregnant women produce hormones that can lead to insulin resistance, and if the pancreas can not produce enough insulin to keep up a woman will develop gestational diabetes. Overweight or obese women have a higher risk for gestational diabetes, and those who gain too much weight during pregnancy can also put themselves at risk. Approximately 7% of women will develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy. While the condition usually goes away after the baby is born, a woman who experiences gestational diabetes is more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later on.
The dedicated team at Palm Beach Diabetes & Endocrine Specialists, PA is pioneering the fight against diabetes and other endocrine disorders, through patient education, goal setting, and individual involvement in a personalized treatment program. To learn more or to schedule an appointment please click here.