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 help in the management or prevention of Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Endocrinologist**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. To start off, could you explain what an autoimmune condition is and how it relates to the first type of diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson**: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. An autoimmune condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the body’s own cells. In the case of Type 1 diabetes, the immune system specifically attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, known as beta cells. This usually develops during childhood, but can occur at any age. As a result, the body is unable to produce insulin, which is crucial for regulating blood glucose levels.
**Editor**: That’s very insightful! Now, let’s shift our focus to Type 2 diabetes. Can you elaborate on how it differs from Type 1?
**Dr. Thompson**: Certainly! Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and is generally characterized by insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin. It can also involve insufficient insulin production. Unlike Type 1, which is mostly seen in children, Type 2 typically develops later in life and is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and inactivity.
**Editor**: Interesting! How do these two types of diabetes impact the approach to treatment?
**Dr. Thompson**: The treatments for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are quite different. Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy because the body can’t produce any insulin. For Type 2 diabetes, treatment often starts with lifestyle changes—like diet and exercise—and may include oral medications or insulin if those initial measures are insufficient.
**Editor**: Thank you for clarifying that! What advice would you give to those looking to manage or prevent Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson**: A proactive approach is key. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Monitoring blood glucose levels is also essential for those at risk or already diagnosed.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for your valuable insights on these two important conditions!
**Dr. Thompson**: My pleasure! Thank you for having me.
