Diabetes

Digestive System

Diabetes Type II, or adult-onset diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes. Most cases develop after age 45 and the risk usually increases with advancing age.

Type II differs from the Type I form of the disease by the fact that the body continues to make insulin, but the cells are unable to use this hormone to metabolize blood sugar, or glucose. As a result, glucose builds up in the blood and causes widespread damage.

Type II diabetes is directly linked to a high sugar intake in the diet. The pancreas, which is responsible for the release of insulin, is heavily burdened by a high sugar intake diet. Intense thirst and an uncommonly frequent need to urinate develop as a result of the urine’s high sugar content. Constant fatigue, itchy skin, and blurred vision are other problems that appear. Overall resistance to illness is low, and skin infections heal poorly.

If diabetes is not kept under control, the disease affects almost every organ system. Those that are especially vulnerable include:

The heart and blood vessels. Diabetes greatly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, and it contributes to high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries. Diabetics also tend to have high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, another fat that circulates in the blood.

Eyes. Diabetes, which damages the tiny blood vessels in the eye, is the leading major cause of adult blindness. It also causes cataracts.

Kidneys. Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure.

Legs and feet. Damaged blood vessels and nerves result in reduced blood flow to the lower legs and feet. This can lead to diabetic ulcers – chronic skin sores.

Nerves. Diabetes commonly causes tingling, numbness, and nerve pain (neuropathy). Nerve damage and impaired circulation can also lead to sexual impotence.

Quick Facts:

• Type II diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body has trouble metabolizing blood sugar (glucose)
• People with type II diabetes often produce adequate insulin, but their cells can’t metabolize it.
• Diabetes greatly increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke, kidney failure and blindness.
• Weight loss and exercise can control most type II diabetes. If needed, medications can be prescribed.

Symptoms:

• Thirst and excessive urination
• Tingling and numbness, especially in the hands and feet.
• Skin infections and slow healing
• Vaginal infections in women
• Impotence in men
• Blurred vision