1. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% of all diabetes cases globally

Type 2 Diabetes is by far the most common type of diabetes and is becoming increasingly prevalent. Also known as hyperglycaemia, it is caused by excessively high blood sugar levels. It requires regular treatment with insulin to bring sugar levels to normal levels. It normally develops in adults but is becoming increasingly common in children due to poor diet.

2. One type of diabetes, called gestational diabetes, occurs in the womb during pregnancy

Women can develop diabetes during pregnancy. Gestation diabetes can occur to any woman regardless of whether they suffer from diabetes before pregnancy or not, and it doesn’t necessarily mean they will have diabetes afterwards. Studies show that 9% of women develop gestational diabetes. The onset of diabetes during pregnancy is due to hormonal changes that affect the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas. As hormones return to normal levels post-pregnancy, gestational diabetes often abates.

3. Approximately 1/3 of all people with diabetes do not know that they have it

This is potentially dangerous because even though there are no visible symptoms, the pancreas will work over time to create more insulin to cope with the increase in blood sugar levels. This constant overdrive of insulin production can harden blood vessels and cause strokes, heart attacks and kidney disease. The danger is that significant damage can be done to the kidneys and blood vessels before people realise they need treatment.

4. Diabetes can cause blindness in adults

There are a range of eye conditions caused by diabetes that can result in blindness. One is called retinopathy which is bleeding of the blood vessels in the eye. Another is macula edema which is swelling of the retina. Other eye complications include cataracts and glaucoma. Diabetes used to be the leading cause of blindness in adults but due to advances in treatment, diabetes related eye conditions are more easily controlled.

5. The symptoms of diabetes in obese people can be controlled through bariatric surgery

Obese people are very susceptible to diabetes though this can be combated by weight loss. If patients cannot lose the weight normally, surgery is an option. The decrease in weight can lower blood sugar levels and tackle some of the problems caused by diabetes. The more overweight a person is, the more likely they are to develop diabetes, especially if the weight is centered round the stomach. This, amongst other reasons, is why diabetes sufferers are strongly encouraged to exercise regularly as it tackles the causes and symptoms.

Shoes for Diabetics

People living with diabetes are at higher risk for health issues affecting their feet

People living with diabetes are at higher risk for health issues affecting their feet

People living with diabetes are at higher risk for health issues affecting their feet. If you have been diagnosed with this disorder, you’ll need to understand that you will be at risk for absence of sensation and poor circulation in your lower extremities from now on.

You may have difficulty being aware of whether your shoes fit you properly, and it’s a good idea to make sure that you have them measured and fitted each time you buy a new pair.

Wide Fit Shoes has a great range of diabetic shoes which have all been designed with style in mind, and will not only provide you with comfort and support, but will look great too.

  

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5 Responses to 5 Facts about Diabetes

  1. thanks for sharing information…

    on May 23, 2016 at 2:15 pm lily
  2. If you think you have diabetes contact a health-care professional.

    on May 24, 2016 at 10:12 pm Austin Diagnostic

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