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 does Type 1 diabetes differ from Type 2 diabetes in terms of its autoimmune nature?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Endocrinologist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. To start off, could you explain the two primary types of diabetes, particularly focusing on the autoimmune aspect we often hear about?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely! The first type of diabetes, known as Type 1 diabetes, is an autoimmune condition. In this case, the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This type typically manifests in childhood or adolescence, and individuals with Type 1 diabetes must rely on insulin therapy for life because their bodies cannot produce insulin.
**Editor:** That’s very insightful. Now, could you tell us more about Type 2 diabetes and how it differs from Type 1?
**Dr. Carter:** Certainly! Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Unlike Type 1, the body in Type 2 diabetes produces insulin, but it’s either insufficient or the body’s cells are resistant to it. This means that even if insulin is present, it’s not effectively utilized to absorb glucose, leading to high blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes often develops later in life and is associated with lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and weight.
**Editor:** Are there specific risk factors that people should be aware of when it comes to Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Carter:** Yes, several risk factors exist for Type 2 diabetes, including obesity, physical inactivity, a family history of diabetes, and certain age factors. Additionally, conditions like high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels can also increase the risk.
**Editor:** Thank you for those details, Dr. Carter. Lastly, what can individuals do to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Carter:** Lifestyle changes play a crucial role. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in nutrients, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular health screenings can significantly lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Education and awareness are key in preventing this condition.
**Editor:** Thank you for your time today and for shedding light on these important topics, Dr. Carter.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me!