Adult Type II Diabetes Explained
November 12th, 2007Millions 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.
What Is Adult Type II Diabetes?
Adult type II diabetes is almost always associated with obesity, although the actual cause of the disease is not clear. In adult type II diabetes, insulin loses its effectiveness with age. As a result, sugars begin to build up within the blood. In the medical profession, this condition is known as “insulin resistance”. When this occurs, usually in the adult years, the person is said to suffer from Type II diabetes.
In our generation, adult type II diabetes is an extremely common occurrence. In fact, it’s estimated that one in every ninety adults suffers with type II diabetes. The condition historically developed in older adults, but it has been observed that there is a trend toward diagnosis at a younger age.
Insulin Resistance and Adult Type II Diabetes
The pancreas produces insulin as a way for the body to naturally regulate sugars. When this biological regulation fails, the condition is termed as insulin resistance. This type of diabetes is sometimes called “beta cell failure”. Some of the main signs 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, a condition of acute joint pain, may occur.
Common Symptoms Of Adult Type II Diabetes
If you present the following common symptoms, you may have adult type II diabetes:
* Sensations of extreme thirst
* Need to urinate frequently
* Chronic fatigue
* Sudden weight loss, although not always pronounced
* Yeast infection resulting in genital itch
* Frequent skin infections and irritations
Living With 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.
* Boost your fiber intake, and eliminate as many fats as possible
* Learn to perform regular blood glucose level checks. You may also need to inject yourself with insulin when required. Be diligent in performing these very 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.
If you are one of the millions of men and women affected with adult type II diabetes, learn as much as you can about the disease and treatment options. Knowledge is a very powerful tool for battling the disease, so take the time to learn all you can and build a strong defense in the fight for your good health.
























