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 do lifestyle choices impact the progression of Type 2 diabetes, and what specific changes do you recommend?
**Interview with Dr. Jane Smith, Endocrinologist and Diabetes Specialist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Smith. Let’s start with the basics. Can you explain the two main types of diabetes?
**Dr. Smith:** Absolutely! The first type is known as Type 1 diabetes. This is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It usually develops in childhood or adolescence, which is why you might hear it referred to as juvenile diabetes.
**Editor:** That sounds serious. What are the implications for those diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes?
**Dr. Smith:** Patients with Type 1 diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels closely and administer insulin daily, either through injections or an insulin pump. Since their bodies can’t produce insulin, they have to find other ways to manage their glucose levels to prevent complications.
**Editor:** Now, you also mentioned a second type of diabetes. Can you elaborate on that?
**Dr. Smith:** Yes, the second type is Type 2 diabetes, which is much more common. In Type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the insulin that is produced doesn’t work effectively. This can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. Type 2 can develop at any age but is more commonly diagnosed in adults, especially those who may be overweight or have a sedentary lifestyle.
**Editor:** What are some of the common risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Smith:** Some of the risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, having a family history of diabetes, and being over the age of 45. Additionally, certain ethnic backgrounds and a history of gestational diabetes also increase risks.
**Editor:** How can people lower their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Smith:** Lifestyle changes can have a significant impact. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial for those at higher risk.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Smith, for these insights into diabetes. It’s important for our audience to understand these conditions better.
**Dr. Smith:** Thank you for having me! Awareness and education are key in managing and preventing diabetes.
