Diabetes

Diabetes, or sugar disease, is a chronic metabolic disorder. The medical term for this condition is diabetes mellitus. In individuals with diabetes, there is an excess of sugar in the blood because the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. The following types of diabetes are recognised:

• Diabetes Type 1  
• Diabetes Type 2  
• Gestational diabetes  
• MODY forms (diabetes caused by a mutation in a single gene in young individuals)  
• LADA (a slow-progressing form of Type 1 diabetes where the immune system attacks cells in the pancreas)  
• Other types, for example, those caused by damage to the pancreas  

Diabetes can have various causes, not all of which are currently known. This means the condition cannot always be prevented. The potential causes differ depending on the type. For type 1 diabetes, they may include:

• Viruses  
• Genetic predisposition  

For type 2 diabetes, the causes may include:  

• Diet  
• Lifestyle  
• Genetic predisposition  
• Being overweight  

The symptoms of the various types of diabetes overlap to some extent. However, they develop at differing rates depending on the type of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes, in particular, can be more challenging to identify. Examples of symptoms that may suggest diabetes include:

• Excessive thirst;  
• Eye problems, such as blurred or impaired vision;  
• Frequent urination;  
• Slow-healing wounds;  
• Frequent recurrent infections.  

On the pages dedicated to type 1 and type 2 diabetes, you can find more detailed information about the symptoms specific to each condition. Certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing diabetes, for instance, if there is a family history of the condition. Are the symptoms of diabetes familiar to you? If so, we recommend booking an appointment with your GP. A blood test can quickly confirm whether diabetes is present. Starting treatment promptly is essential.

Unfortunately, type 1 diabetes cannot be cured, as it is an autoimmune condition. For overall health, giving up smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and following a healthy diet are more beneficial. A healthy lifestyle can have an impact on the development of type 2 diabetes.

Has your GP diagnosed diabetes? If so, they will discuss the potential treatments with you. The most suitable treatments will depend on your medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

People with diabetes are often advised to make changes to their lifestyle. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and losing weight if overweight are the most important steps to take. A low-carbohydrate diet and adequate physical activity may increase the chances of requiring less medication (always in consultation with your doctor). Furthermore, the risk of side effects may be reduced. It is also possible that the risks of complications, such as cardiovascular diseases, could be lowered or delayed.

The use of insulin may involve side effects and risks, which are typically associated with either underdosing or overdosing.

The main side effects include:

• A low blood glucose level: Are you injecting too much insulin? This can cause your blood glucose level to drop too low (hypoglycaemia). Intense physical activity, eating too little, eating too late, or injecting insulin into a different body area than usual can also result in low blood sugar levels. In such cases, the insulin may be absorbed into the bloodstream too quickly, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. Symptoms of hypoglycaemia include hunger, paleness, trembling, sweating, irritability, fatigue, dizziness, and headache. If left untreated, a hypo may cause you to faint.  
• A high blood glucose level: Are you injecting too little insulin? This can cause your blood glucose level to rise too high (hyperglycaemia). Illness, stress, or missing a dose can also trigger high blood sugar levels. Symptoms of hyperglycaemia include frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased fluid intake, and fatigue. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can result in vascular and nerve damage.  
• A small risk of hypersensitivity to insulin or its additives, such as preservatives.  
• Blurred vision during the first few months of insulin use. This occurs as your eyes adjust to the new blood sugar levels and usually resolves on its own. 
• Injection site reactions, such as hard spots or lumps on the skin. Avoid injecting insulin into these areas, as this can make blood glucose regulation more challenging. These reactions typically resolve on their own, although this may take several months or up to a year.  

Your doctor will advise you on how often you need to measure your blood glucose levels. For individuals with diabetes, a normal fasting blood sugar level is often between 4 and 8 mmol per litre. During the day, this value is usually below 10 mmol per litre. If your readings change suddenly, contact your doctor.

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, primarily because its causes remain unknown. However, there is a great deal you can do to prevent type 2 diabetes. Are you struggling with excess weight? Losing weight can substantially reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Furthermore, adopting a healthy lifestyle and diet can significantly help in lowering the risk.

https://www.diabetesfonds.nl/over-diabetes/wat-is-diabetes

https://www.diabetes.nl/wat-is-diabetes

https://www.dvn.nl/diabetes

https://www.apotheek.nl/klachten-ziektes/diabetes-mellitus