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
What are the key differences in lifestyle management for individuals with Type 1 diabetes compared to those with Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Jensen, Endocrinologist**
**Editor:** Today, we’re diving into the complexities of diabetes with Dr. Emily Jensen, an experienced endocrinologist. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Jensen.
**Dr. Jensen:** Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Editor:** Let’s start with the two primary types of diabetes. Can you explain what distinguishes Type 1 from Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Jensen:** Absolutely. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, known as beta cells. This usually develops in childhood or adolescence. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin regularly because their bodies cannot produce it.
**Editor:** That’s crucial information. And what about Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Jensen:** Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is often related to insulin resistance, where the body does produce insulin but it’s not effective in helping cells absorb glucose. Over time, the pancreas may also produce less insulin, complicating the situation. Type 2 can develop at any age but is more commonly diagnosed in adults, especially those who are overweight or sedentary.
**Editor:** Interesting. I’ve heard that lifestyle choices can significantly impact Type 2 diabetes. Can you expand on that?
**Dr. Jensen:** Yes, lifestyle factors play a critical role in the development and management of Type 2 diabetes. A diet high in processed foods and sugars, coupled with physical inactivity, can increase one’s risk. However, changes in diet, exercise, and weight management can halt or even reverse the progression of the disease.
**Editor:** It’s heartening to know there are proactive steps people can take. How does the approach to managing these types of diabetes differ?
**Dr. Jensen:** Management strategies are quite different for each type. For Type 1, it’s about managing insulin therapy and monitoring blood glucose levels. With Type 2, the focus is on lifestyle changes, along with possible medications or insulin therapy as the disease progresses. Each patient’s management plan must be tailored to their individual needs and circumstances.
**Editor:** Tailoring management plans sounds essential. If someone has concerns about diabetes, what should they do?
**Dr. Jensen:** They should consult a healthcare provider who can evaluate their risk factors and suggest appropriate tests, like blood glucose levels. Early detection is key, especially for Type 2 diabetes, where intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Jensen, for this insightful conversation about diabetes. Your expertise helps clarify these significant health challenges.
**Dr. Jensen:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital to spread awareness and understanding about diabetes for better health outcomes.
**Editor:** Absolutely. And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed about your health!