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 influence the management of Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Endocrinologist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. Let’s dive right in. Can you explain the two main types of diabetes and how they differ?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely! The first type is known as Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition. In this case, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This type generally develops in childhood or early adulthood, and individuals with Type 1 require lifelong insulin therapy.
**Editor:** That’s very insightful. And what about the second type?
**Dr. Carter:** 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 doesn’t work effectively. This can lead to elevated blood glucose levels. It typically develops later in life and is often associated with lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise.
**Editor:** How do the management strategies differ between these two types?
**Dr. Carter:** For Type 1 diabetes, management revolves around regular insulin injections or an insulin pump, alongside consistent monitoring of blood glucose levels. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes management might begin with lifestyle changes, like improved diet and increased physical activity, but can also include oral medications or insulin if those measures aren’t enough.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Carter. That really helps clarify the differences between the two types of diabetes. Any final thoughts for our readers?
**Dr. Carter:** Certainly! It’s vital for individuals to understand the type of diabetes they or their loved ones may have, as it directly impacts the treatment approach. Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals can lead to better management and improved quality of life.
**Editor:** We appreciate your time and expertise today, Dr. Carter. Thank you!