Diabetes Explained: An Overview of the Growing Concern
Diabetes arises when the body struggles to convert sugars into fuel, a result of insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin function. With its roots in modern lifestyle and dietary choices, the condition is seeing a significant surge in the UK.
The Role of Insulin and Glucose
Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is pivotal for converting glucose from carbohydrates into energy. Acting as a key, insulin allows glucose to enter cells. Carbohydrates, the primary source of glucose, are derived from varied foods including starches, fruits, dairy, and sugary foods.
Diabetes in the UK: A Snapshot
An alarming 25 million people in the UK are diabetic, with over half a million unaware of their condition.
Main Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
- Characterised by the body's inability to produce insulin.
- Typically manifests before age 14.
- Represents 5% to 15% of diabetic cases.
- Common symptoms include extreme thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and blurred vision.
- Prevention is currently impossible.
Type 2 Diabetes
- Arises when insulin production is inadequate or when produced insulin doesn’t function correctly (insulin resistance).
- Commonly associated with obesity.
- Typically seen in those over 40, but appearing in younger demographics, especially in South Asian and Afro-Caribbean populations.
- Constitutes 85% to 95% of all diabetes cases.
- Symptoms include blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, frequent urination, and leg pain.
Managing Diabetes: Treatments and Complications
With appropriate management via insulin, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes, diabetes can be well-controlled. However, complications can arise, primarily being hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia.
Hyperglycaemia
- Condition of excessively high blood sugar levels.
- Immediate medical attention is required. In unconscious cases, position the patient safely and monitor their vitals.
- Symptoms include frequent urination, drowsiness, extreme hunger, and a fruity breath odour.
Hypoglycaemia
- Occurs when blood sugar levels plummet.
- Immediate provision of sugar, through food or tablets, often stabilises the patient.
- Common symptoms are shaking, sweating, anxiety, extreme hunger, and irritability.
Uncertain Sugar Levels: What to Do?
If in doubt regarding a patient's blood sugar levels, it's advisable to administer sugar. This can raise levels if they're low without causing harm if they're high.
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