Causes of Diabetes

Diabetes is a metabolic disease that occurs when the body does not produce insulin or fails to properly use this hormone. Insulin helps glucose to enter the cells in order to be used for energy production. Diabetes, if not treated properly, can lead to serious complications that cause disability and can be life-threatening.

It is estimated that many patients suffer from this disease for about 5 years before the first symptoms appear. Until getting a diagnosis, this condition may cause major damage to many vital organs. Among the many serious complications that can be caused by this disease, there are: blindness, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and amputations.

The main symptoms of diabetes in the early stages are the following:

* Intense thirst
* Intense hunger
* Frequent urination
* Numbness in the feet and hands
* Wounds or ulcers that do not heal easily
* Skin that is dry and itchy
* Unexplained weight loss
* Problems with vision
* Unusual fatigue and sleepiness
* Frequent and recurrent infections, especially in the skin, reproductive system and urinary bladder.

If someone has one or more of the above symptoms it is wise to consult his doctor.

It is important to note that at its early stages, diabetes does not cause many symptoms and may pass unnoticed. But the disease develops silently, causing damage to eyesight, kidneys and the cardiovascular system.

Some people have a higher risk of developing this disease. Factors associated with increased risk for diabetes are:

1. Age: people over 45 have an increased risk for diabetes
2. Body weight: overweight and obese people are more at risk
3. Exercise: those who lead a sedentary lifestyle may develop diabetes more easily
4. Family history: people who have a parent or brothers and sisters who are suffering from this condition should be extra cautious
5. Pregnancy: Women who had diabetes during pregnancy or gave birth to a child weighing more than 9 pounds, are more likely to suffer from this condition.

If you have just discovered that you have diabetes, do not think that you're sick or you have some kind of disability. Millions of people have this disease and yet lead a normal, active life. You just need to make a few lifestyle changes. Eat regular meals, reduce the consumption of fat and limit your intake of sugar and sugar-sweetened foods. It would also be helpful to keep your weight at ideal levels and exercise regularly.

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