Diabetes is a health condition characterized by elevated levels of glucose in the blood. It is a growing concern in Bangalore, a bustling city in Southern India with a population of over 12 million. The prevalence of diabetes in Bangalore has been increasing over the years due to factors such as rapid urbanization, a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy dietary habits, and genetic predisposition. According to a study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research, the prevalence of diabetes in Bangalore has increased from 8.3% in 2008 to 10.4% in 2018.
It is a condition in which the body cannot produce or use insulin effectively, leading to high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not known, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Symptoms
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes may include excessive thirst and urination, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss, and irritability. If left untreated, type 1 diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney damage.
Treatment
Treatment for type 1 diabetes typically involves regular blood sugar monitoring, insulin injections, and a healthy lifestyle including a balanced diet and regular exercise. While there is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes, managing the condition can help prevent complications and improve the quality of life for those living with the disease. It is important for individuals with type 1 diabetes to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan and to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for around 90% of all cases. It is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. The exact causes of type 2 diabetes are not fully understood, but lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet are known to increase the risk of developing the condition. Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, and numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. It is often diagnosed in middle-aged or older adults, but it can also occur in children and adolescents.
How to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes?
Treatment for type 2 diabetes usually involves making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight loss. Medications may also be prescribed to help lower blood sugar levels, including metformin, sulfonylureas, and insulin. In some cases, surgery may be recommended, such as gastric bypass surgery, to help improve blood sugar control. It is important for individuals with type 2 diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and work closely with their healthcare team to manage the condition and prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. With proper management and lifestyle changes, many people with type 2 diabetes can live healthy, fulfilling lives.
When to consult a diabetes specialist in Bangalore?
In Bangalore, India, diabetes is a prevalent condition that requires proper management to prevent complications. While primary care physicians can manage diabetes, there are cases where patients may need to consult a diabetes specialist. Generally, people with diabetes should consult a specialist when their blood glucose levels are not under control, and they experience complications such as vision problems, kidney damage, nerve damage, or cardiovascular disease. Patients with type 1 diabetes should see a diabetes specialist at the time of diagnosis to learn how to manage their condition effectively.
Patients with gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy, should see the best diabetic doctors in Bangalore to manage their blood glucose levels and prevent complications for themselves and their unborn children.
Patients who require insulin therapy or have difficulty managing their medication regimen may also benefit from seeing a diabetes specialist. There are qualified diabetes specialists in Bangalore who can help patients manage their condition and prevent complications. It is important for patients to seek help from a specialist when necessary to ensure proper management of their diabetes and overall health.
Reasons why you require new diabetes treatment
Inadequate blood sugar control:
If your blood sugar levels are not well controlled despite following a healthy diet and taking medication, you may require new diabetes treatment options such as insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitoring systems.
Side effects of medication:
Some diabetes medications can cause side effects such as weight gain or gastrointestinal problems. If you are experiencing side effects from your medication, you may need to switch to a different medication or try a new treatment option.
Diabetes-related complications:
If you have developed complications such as diabetic retinopathy or neuropathy, you may require new treatment options to manage these conditions and prevent further damage.
