Adult Type II Diabetes Explained

Millions of men and women around the world have been diagnosed with diabetes. It is, in fact, one of six leading causes of death in North America. Patients face serious consequences, however diabetes can be effectively controlled through medical treatment and healthy lifestyle choices.

There are three primary types of diabetes affecting adults. Type I diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is a condition present at birth that remains into adulthood. Type II diabetes is a form of the disease that develops with age. The third type, gestational diabetes, affects women during pregnancy. Each is unique in the onset and development, however many of the symptoms are similar throughout the three types of diabetes.

Understanding Adult Type II Diabetes

In most cases, adult type II diabetes is associated with obesity, even though the actual cause of the disease is not clear. With age, adult type II diabetes causes insulin to lose its effectiveness, and creates a buildup of sugar in the blood. This condition is known as "insulin resistance" in the medical profession. Adults facing these symptoms are said to be suffering with type II diabetes.

Adult type II diabetes is an extremely common occurrence with our generation. It's estimated that one in every ninety adults suffer from type II diabetes. Historically, the condition would develop in older adults, but it has been observed that there is a trend toward diagnosis at a younger age.

Insulin Resistance

Insulin is produced in the pancreas, and allows the body to naturally regulate sugars. The failure of this biological regulation is a condition known as insulin resistance. This type of diabetes is also known as "beta cell failure". Some of the most common symptoms are as follows:

* There may be a marked and sudden rise in the levels of glucose in the blood.

* The fat levels in the blood will also rise, making the arteries susceptible to clogging, and resulting in serious heart conditions.

* Blood pressure levels increase steadily.

* Gout may occur. This is a condition of acute joint pain.

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Adult Type II Diabetes?

The following symptoms may be common to the all types of the disease, and can indicate the presence of adult type II diabetes:

* Extreme thirst

* Need to urinate frequently

* Chronic fatigue

* Sudden, yet not always pronounced, weight loss

* Yeast infection resulting in genital itch

* Frequent skin infections and irritations

Treating Adult Type II Diabetes

If you have been diagnosed with adult type II diabetes, you can take steps to make your life as normal and comfortable as possible:

* Before you do anything else, alter your diet. Work with your doctor to determine a dietary plan that will keep your glucose levels in check.

* Increase your intake of fiber and eliminate as many fats as possible

* Learn to perform regular blood glucose level checks. Depending on your needs, you may also require insulin injections. Be diligent in carrying out these important tasks.

* Stay in touch with your doctor, and keep his or her number close at hand. Be prepared to call immediately for medical help, in the event of an emergency.

Millions of people live with adult type II diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with the disease, take the time to find out more about your condition and your treatment options. Knowledge is a very powerful weapon in your fight against diabetes. Learn all you can, and build a strong defense for the sake of your good health.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 12th, 2007 at 7:08 pm and is filed under Diabetes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.