The first type is known as an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body and kills the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type of diabetes generally develops in childhood.
The second type is the most common, in which the body produces little insulin, which may not perform its role in absorbing glucose from the body’s cells. This condition generally develops with age and is related to lifestyle.
It is important to know how diabetes can appear on the body, as individuals often develop this chronic condition without showing early symptoms.
Studies have shown that skin problems are often the first visible signs of diabetes.
Pharmacist Bruce Green said that the skin of a diabetic may look similar to the skin of an elderly person. He explained that the process of changing the skin is a process called glycation, which is a non-enzymatic process responsible for many large and small vascular complications in diabetes, and has a role in some diseases of aging.
He pointed out that skin problems are more common among people with diabetes due to poor blood circulation and loss of sensitivity in the nerves.
Green revealed six major warning signs appearing on the skin that you should be aware of:
1. Yellow or brown spots or bumps
2. A dark area of skin that feels velvety, especially around the neck and armpits
3. Thick, hard skin patches, especially on the fingers and toes
4. Sudden appearance of pimples
5. Skin spots – small, barely noticeable indentations on the skin
6. Dry and itchy skin, especially on the arms, legs, elbows and feet
However, these are not the only symptoms you should be aware of, as the main symptoms of diabetes include feeling very thirsty, or urinating more than usual, especially at night.
Extreme fatigue throughout the day, unintended weight loss, itching around the genitals, frequent bouts of thrush, and vision changes are the main warning symptoms of the disease.
Source: The Sun
#skin #signs #diabetes
How can individuals reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Chen, Endocrinologist**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Chen. We want to discuss the different types of diabetes, particularly focusing on Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Can you start by explaining what sets these two types apart?
**Dr. Chen**: Absolutely! The primary distinction lies in their causes and age of onset. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This usually develops in childhood or adolescence, which is why it’s often referred to as juvenile diabetes.
**Editor**: That’s insightful. So, what happens in the body of someone with Type 1 diabetes?
**Dr. Chen**: In Type 1 diabetes, the body can no longer produce insulin, a hormone critical for regulating blood sugar levels. As a result, individuals with this condition must rely on insulin injections or pumps to maintain their blood glucose levels.
**Editor**: Now, moving on to Type 2 diabetes—how does that differ?
**Dr. Chen**: Type 2 diabetes is much more common and typically develops later in life, although it’s increasingly being diagnosed in children and adolescents due to rising obesity rates. In this type, the body either produces insufficient insulin or the insulin is not effective in lowering blood glucose levels, a phenomenon known as insulin resistance.
**Editor**: So, Type 2 is more about how the body responds to insulin rather than its production?
**Dr. Chen**: Exactly! In many cases, lifestyle factors—such as diet, exercise, and weight—play a significant role in the development of Type 2 diabetes. Sometimes, it can be managed with lifestyle changes, but other individuals may require medication or insulin as well.
**Editor**: It sounds like both types have serious implications for managing one’s health. Are there common misconceptions that people have about diabetes?
**Dr. Chen**: Yes, definitely. A common misconception is that all diabetes is due to poor lifestyle choices, which isn’t true for Type 1. Additionally, many people think that diabetes exclusively affects weight—while obesity is a notable risk factor for Type 2, not all individuals with Type 2 diabetes are overweight.
**Editor**: That’s an important clarification. What advice would you give to those looking to prevent Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Chen**: Focusing on a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and routine health check-ups can significantly reduce the risk. Education about the signs and symptoms of diabetes is key for early detection and management.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for those insights! It’s vital for our audience to understand the differences and the importance of managing both types of diabetes effectively.
**Dr. Chen**: Thank you for having me! Raising awareness about diabetes is crucial for prevention and better health outcomes.
