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 management strategies for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Endocrinologist, on Understanding Diabetes Types**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Dr. Carter. Thank you for joining us today to discuss diabetes. To start, can you explain the two main types of diabetes and how they differ?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely! The first type of diabetes is known as Type 1 diabetes, which is classified as an autoimmune condition. In this case, the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This type typically develops in childhood or early adulthood, which is why it’s often referred to as juvenile diabetes.
**Interviewer:** That’s very informative. And what about the second type of diabetes?
**Dr. Carter:** The second type is Type 2 diabetes, which is much more common. In Type 2 diabetes, the body still produces insulin, but either not enough or the insulin may not efficiently help absorb glucose into the cells. This leads to insulin resistance and higher blood sugar levels. It is often associated with lifestyle factors and can develop at any age.
**Interviewer:** What are some risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Carter:** Great question! Some of the risk factors include being overweight, having a sedentary lifestyle, being over the age of 45, and having a family history of diabetes. Additionally, certain ethnic groups are at higher risk. Lifestyle modifications can greatly help in prevention and management.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Carter. Is there any recent research that provides new insights into managing these types of diabetes?
**Dr. Carter:** Yes, ongoing research has focused on the role of technology in diabetes management, such as continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps. There’s also promising work being done around potential immunotherapies for Type 1 diabetes. For Type 2, studies emphasize the importance of diet and exercise in reversing insulin resistance.
**Interviewer:** That sounds encouraging. What advice do you have for individuals who may be managing either type of diabetes?
**Dr. Carter:** For both types, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial. For Type 1, maintaining insulin therapy and being aware of carb intake is key. For Type 2, lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, are vital. Support groups and education programs can also make a significant difference.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for this enlightening discussion on diabetes. Your insights will surely help our readers gain a better understanding of these conditions.
**Dr. Carter:** My pleasure—thank you for having me!
