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 lifestyle changes impact the management of diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Wright, Endocrinologist**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Wright. Let’s start with a brief overview of the two main types of diabetes.
**Dr. Wright:** Thank you for having me. Yes, there are primarily two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This usually occurs in childhood or early adulthood, which is why it was previously known as juvenile diabetes.
**Interviewer:** And what about Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Wright:** Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. In this case, the body either produces insufficient insulin or the insulin it produces does not work effectively. This leads to an inability to properly absorb glucose, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. Type 2 often develops in adults but is increasingly being diagnosed in children and adolescents due to rising obesity rates.
**Interviewer:** What are the key differences in their causes?
**Dr. Wright:** The key difference lies in the underlying mechanisms. Type 1 is caused by an autoimmune attack on the pancreas. In contrast, Type 2 is often linked to genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and obesity. While Type 1 is less common, Type 2 accounts for about 90-95% of all diabetes cases.
**Interviewer:** How do symptoms differ between the two types?
**Dr. Wright:** Symptoms can overlap, but because Type 1 often arises suddenly, symptoms such as extreme thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue can appear quickly. In Type 2, symptoms develop more gradually and may include increased hunger, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Because of the gradual onset, many people may be unaware they have Type 2 diabetes until complications arise.
**Interviewer:** What treatment options are available for each?
**Dr. Wright:** For Type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential for survival, often delivered through injections or an insulin pump. Type 2 diabetes can be managed with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, oral medications, and sometimes insulin therapy if needed.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what advice would you give to those wanting to manage or prevent diabetes?
**Dr. Wright:** For everyone, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and eating a balanced diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. For those with a family history of diabetes, regular screening is crucial. Early detection can lead to more effective management.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Wright. This information will surely help our viewers understand diabetes better.
**Dr. Wright:** Thank you for having me! It’s vital we spread awareness about both types of diabetes.
