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 distinguishing symptoms between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Endocrinologist, on the Two Main Types of Diabetes**
**Editor:** Welcome, Dr. Thompson! Thank you for joining us today to discuss diabetes, something that affects millions of people around the world.
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me! It’s important to raise awareness about diabetes and its implications.
**Editor:** To start, can you explain the difference between the two main types of diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson:** Certainly. The first type is known as Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition. In this case, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This often develops in childhood and means that individuals require lifelong insulin therapy.
**Editor:** That sounds quite serious. What about the second type?
**Dr. Thompson:** The second type is Type 2 diabetes, which is the most common form. In Type 2, the body either produces insufficient insulin or the insulin that is produced does not effectively help cells absorb glucose. This type typically develops later in life and is often linked to lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise.
**Editor:** Interesting! Can you briefly touch on the risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson:** Absolutely. Common risk factors include obesity, lack of physical activity, age, and a family history of diabetes. It’s crucial for individuals at risk to monitor their health and make lifestyle changes to mitigate these risks.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for this enlightening conversation! It’s clear that understanding these two types of diabetes is essential for prevention and management.
**Dr. Thompson:** My pleasure! Awareness is the first step towards better health.