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 choices impact the development of Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Endocrinologist, on Types of Diabetes**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. Let’s dive right into the topic of diabetes. Can you explain the differences between the two main types of diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The two primary types of diabetes are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
**Editor:** Great, let’s start with Type 1 diabetes. Can you elaborate on how it develops?
**Dr. Thompson:** Certainly! Type 1 diabetes is classified as an autoimmune condition. In this case, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This form of diabetes typically manifests in childhood or adolescence, although it can occur at any age, leading to an absolute deficiency of insulin in the body.
**Editor:** That sounds quite challenging. What about Type 2 diabetes? How does that differ?
**Dr. Thompson:** Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease. It usually develops when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to insulin’s effects. This means that even if insulin is present, it cannot effectively help glucose enter the cells, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors and can occur at any age, though it’s more prevalent in adults.
**Editor:** Thank you for clarifying that. Are there any common symptoms to look out for with both types?
**Dr. Thompson:** Yes, there are some overlapping symptoms, including increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, and blurred vision. However, symptoms can vary, and Type 1 diabetes often has a more sudden onset, while Type 2 symptoms may develop gradually.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your insights. It’s crucial for people to understand these differences, especially for early detection and management.
**Dr. Thompson:** My pleasure! Awareness and education about diabetes are key to managing the condition effectively.
**Editor:** Absolutely, and thank you to our audience for tuning in. We hope this interview helps you better understand diabetes and encourages healthy conversations around it.