Pre-diabetes, diabetes, consequence and control

Pre-diabetes and Diabetes Facts and Figures

Some survey showed that there are over 20 million people in the United States of America who suffer from diabetes. Diabetes can be classified into 2 types:

Pre-diabetes (Impaired Glucose Tolerance or IGT)

Pre-diabetes used to be called Impaired Glucose Tolerance. I was diagnosed as having Impaired Glucose Tolerance more than 20 years ago. What they did was made me drink sugar water and monitor the blood sugar level at regular intervals (oral glucose tolerance test or OGTT). It was found that my blood sugar level fell at a rate slower than a normal person. According to what had been reported in the newspaper, I should be diabetic now, but numerous tests have shown that I do not have diabetes, so what should we make of this. Anyway, it seems some research in the United States of America found that 54 million people in United States is pre-diabetic, and even if that has not become diabetes, there are still long-term damages to the heart and circulatory system. Looks like I may have to consult my physician when I go for my appointment next month. Also, it seems making changes in one's diet, controlling one's weight plus taking regular exercises can help prevent progression to diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes or juvenile diabetes

For people who have Type 1 diabetes, their body cannot produce insulin which is absolutely essential to help convert sugar, starches and other food to energy. Type 1 diabetes is a serious medical conditions but those with Type 1 diabetes who control their blood sugar level well can live long and healthy life. Type 1 diabetes can be controlled by injection of insulin into the blood and preferably supplemented by dietary and suitable lifestyle. The reason why Type 1 diabetes is also referred to as juvenile diabetes is because victims are often children and young adults.

Type 2 diabetes

People who suffers from Type 2 diabetes either do not produce sufficient insulin or their body cannot utilize the insulin effectively. This form of diabetes is the most common, but often can be controlled by just dietary changes or following a careful diet that helps keep the blood sugar level at manageable levels. More serious cases may need medications.

Adverse consequences of badly controlled diabetes

Diabetic patients who do not control their blood sugar level well are exposed to various health hazards including kidney failure (nephropathy), eyesight problems which may include blindness (retinopathy), cardiovascular disease (hypertension and stroke) and nerve damage (neuropathy). Wounds may heal slower than normal.

Controlling diabetes

Diabetic patients should have suitable diabetic supplies such as blood glucose test strips to monitor their blood sugar level so as to ensure it is within manageable levels. I understand that if you purchase most test strips, you can even get a free glucose meter. Sounds like a good deal, but do check them out.