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 lifestyle changes can help in preventing Type 2 diabetes?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Endocrinologist**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. Let’s dive into the two main types of diabetes. Can you explain what autoimmune diabetes is and how it differs from Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson**: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. Autoimmune diabetes, often referred to as Type 1 diabetes, occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body either produces little to no insulin. This condition often develops in childhood, which is why it is commonly diagnosed in younger patients.
**Editor**: That’s an important distinction. Now, can you tell us more about Type 2 diabetes and how it differs?
**Dr. Thompson**: Certainly! Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and typically develops in adults, although we are now seeing increased cases in children and adolescents due to rising obesity rates. In Type 2, the pancreas produces insulin, but either not enough or the body becomes resistant to it. This means that glucose from food isn’t effectively absorbed into the cells, leading to high blood sugar levels.
**Editor**: What are some of the key risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson**: Common risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include being overweight, having a sedentary lifestyle, and family history of diabetes. Additionally, age plays a role; the risk increases as people get older. Other factors include poor diet and conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol.
**Editor**: How can individuals prevent or manage these types of diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson**: For Type 1 diabetes, prevention isn’t currently possible since it is an autoimmune condition. However, individuals can manage it effectively with insulin therapy and lifestyle adjustments. For Type 2, prevention is often achievable through maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Early detection is also crucial; regular check-ups can help catch prediabetes or early signs of diabetes.
**Editor**: Thank you for shedding light on these critical health issues, Dr. Thompson. Your insights are invaluable for our readers.
**Dr. Thompson**: Thank you for having me; it’s been a pleasure to discuss such an important topic!
