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World Diabetes Day is fast approaching on the 14 November 2016 and in the lead up to this event Eastbrooke Medical Centres would like to provide awareness on this topic regarding the three different Types of Diabetes and their aligning symptoms.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a common medical condition which is characterised by elevated levels of blood glucose. It is caused by one of two things: when your body produces no insulin, or when your body can’t use or produces insufficient insulin. There are three Types of diabetes, as follows:
Type 1 diabetes – This is the most negative form of the disease, as it is genetic in origin and is completely unpreventable. It is an autoimmune disease, meaning that the body’s immune system destroys the insulin producing cells in the pancreas. Daily support and monitoring is required for Type 1 diabetes patients.
Type 2 diabetes – Type 2 diabetes is completely preventable, as it develops due to lifestyle factors such as a bad diet or lack of physical activity. It is most common in older people and people with a history of the disease.
Gestational diabetes – Usually this form of the disease only occurs during pregnancy, and the sufferer can return to normal health after giving birth. It is due to elevated blood glucose levels caused by the pregnancy.
Who has diabetes and who can get it?
According to Australian government data, around 1.7 million Australians have diabetes[1]. However, there may be an even greater number than this, as people don’t always know that they have the condition. Diabetes is much more common in older generations, with 16% of 65-74 year olds having the disease. This is four times as high as people just twenty years younger in the 45-54 years old category2. Anyone can get the disease, but it is more prevalent in people with an unhealthy lifestyle. People living in lower socioeconomic groups are a lot more likely to develop the disease, something which is perhaps due to poor lifestyle habits.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms associated with diabetes are often subtle, but they can still be pinpointed from the early stages of onset. Early signs of Type 2 diabetes may seem harmless, but if left unattended to, may lead to further complications. Most notably, those experiencing signs will notice an excessive thirst and significant increase in urination. Fatigue may be apparent, whilst weight loss can also occur. In some cases, blurred vision can be a possible side effect as well3.
What to do if your diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes
There are a number of ways that you can deal with Type 2 diabetes to ensure that your life isn’t adversely affected. Regular health checks and assessments with your GP are recommended. The team at Eastbrooke Medical Centres specialises in diabetes awareness, treatment and support, and offers clinics across NSW, VIC and QLD. If you are concerned that you may have the early symptoms of Type 2 diabetes or require further information, contact us today to make an appointment with one of our professional GPs.
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