Diabetes

Anatomy of Diabetes

The pancreas is a leaf-shaped organ located just below the stomach and responsible for the regulation of glucose levels in blood. This is done by the secretion of insulin hormone by tiny clusters of cells, called Islets of Langerhans, which are present in the pancreas.

After a meal the blood glucose level rises causing beta cells (which form part of the Islets) to release insulin into the blood. This instigates body cells to absorb glucose to be used as fuel.

When the diabetes disorder exists one of two things can occur, either little or no insulin is produced by the pancreas, or the body cells are resistant to the action of insulin, causing increased blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia).

Symptoms of Diabetes

The main symptoms of diabetes are:

• Increased thirst and drinking,
• Hunger,
• Weight loss,
• Frequent urination,
• Tiredness,
• Fungal infections,
• Blurry vision, and
• Dark pigmentation in certain parts of the body.

As the loss of insulin production progresses, a patient may develop:

• Stomach pain,
• Vomiting and
• Become very ill

Sustained, uncontrolled high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia) can damage the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves.

What is the Impact of Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires lifelong medication and lifestyle modifications. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels will be required.

What are the Types of Diabetes?

Types of diabetes are:

Type 1 Diabetes

Patients diagnosed as hyperglycaemic are said to have Type 1 Diabetes. Their bodies’ pancreas produces little or no insulin to convert sugar into energy. It is also called insulin-dependent diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes

The body becomes resistant to insulin. It is also called non-insulin dependent diabetes and is seen more commonly in adults. Type 2 diabetes is considered ‘lifestyle related’.

Monogenic Diabetes: MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young) is a genetic form of diabetes affecting about 5% of people with diabetes. Caused by a single gene abnormality that cause diabetes, in some forms, can be managed with tablets.

Secondary Diabetes

This results from other conditions affecting the pancreas such as cystic fibrosis, hormonal disorders, adverse effects of drugs, insulin receptor abnormalities, and some of the genetic disorders.

Gestational Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes that develops during pregnancy. This occurs in some women, resolving soon after childbirth, but increases the risk of them developing the condition later in life.

What Causes Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes is caused by an autoimmune response of the body’s own immune system, where it wrongly considers insulin producing beta cells of the pancreas as harmful and attacks them, destroying many of the cells.

This leads to lowered production of insulin. However, as the immune system does not target the body’s ability to accept insulin, insulin injections can be administered to make up for the low levels.

Type 2 Diabetes typically affects older people. Type 2 diabetes is being increasingly diagnosed in more Australians presenting with weight issues. It is thought to be caused by lifestyle factors such as:

• An unhealthy diet,
• Sedentary lifestyle and
• Obesity.

Conversely it can be managed through diet, exercise and regular blood glucose monitoring.

Diagnosis of Diabetes

The only thing required to diagnose diabetes is:

• Random blood glucose,
• Blood ketones, and
• Blood Glucose Level GL 7-10.

Where this is the case, our doctor may want to contact us urgently to discuss the next steps in diagnosis.

Your doctor may order the following tests to diagnose diabetes:

• Urine test
• HbA1c test
• Oral glucose tolerance test
• Fasting blood sugar test
• Random blood sugar test

Is Diabetes Curable?

Currently diabetes does not have a cure. Treatment will have to be continued throughout life to control the symptoms of the disease.

Timely treatment and lifestyle changes can help control the condition and its symptoms, and prevent serious complications associated with it.

What is a Treatment for Diabetes

The treatment options for diabetes depends on the type:

• Type 1 Diabetes: Insulin injections have to be taken as the body produces little or no insulin. You will have to maintain a strict diet and exercise plan to maintain a steady level of glucose in the blood.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Healthy eating and increased physical activity promoting a healthy weight is important. You may also be prescribed medication to regulate the levels of insulin in your body. These may be taken orally or as injections.

If you suspect or know you have diabetes please contact the practice for testing or management advice.