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 individuals effectively prevent or manage Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes?
### Interview with Dr. Emily Torres, Endocrinologist
**Editor:** Welcome, Dr. Torres. Today, we’re discussing the two primary types of diabetes. Let’s start with Type 1 diabetes. Can you explain what distinguishes it from Type 2?
**Dr. Torres:** Absolutely! Type 1 diabetes is categorized as an autoimmune condition. This means that the body’s own immune system mistakenly targets and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It typically develops in childhood or adolescence, although it can occur at any age.
**Editor:** That’s interesting. So, what are the implications of this immune response for someone living with Type 1 diabetes?
**Dr. Torres:** Since the body can’t produce insulin, individuals with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections or use insulin pumps to manage their blood sugar levels. They must also monitor their glucose levels regularly to prevent complications like ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening.
**Editor:** Now, let’s shift our focus to Type 2 diabetes. What sets it apart from Type 1?
**Dr. Torres:** Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. It usually develops later in life and often occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the insulin it produces doesn’t work effectively—a condition known as insulin resistance. This can lead to elevated blood sugar levels over time.
**Editor:** What are some risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Torres:** Several factors can contribute, including obesity, physical inactivity, family history, and even age. It’s more prevalent among older adults, but we’re seeing increasing cases in younger populations due to rising obesity rates.
**Editor:** What advice would you give for prevention or effective management of Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Torres:** Lifestyle choices play a vital role. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and routine monitoring of blood sugar levels are key strategies in preventing and managing Type 2 diabetes.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Torres, for providing such valuable insights into both types of diabetes. It’s crucial for our audience to understand the differences and implications of each type.
**Dr. Torres:** Thank you for having me! Awareness is the first step toward better management and prevention.
