As we all know Type 2 Diabetes was (or is) called adult-onset diabetes.  It is defined by high blood glucose (or sugar) and insulin resistance.  Typically this affected adults, but more recently it is affecting people of all ages.

There are an estimated 23.6 million people in the U.S. (7.8% of the population) with diabetes with 17.9 million being diagnosed, 90% of whom are type 2.  With prevalence rates doubling between 1990 and 2005, the CDC as characterized the increase as an epidemic.  Traditionally considered a disease of adults, type 2 diabetes is increasingly diagnosed in children in parallel to rising obesity rates.

When Type 2 diabetes is not controlled, the outcomes can be horrific – from a loss of eyesight to as extreme as a loss of limbs or even death.

Diabetics need to control their blood glucose levels diligently, otherwise face the consequences.

The blood glucose level is the amount of glucose in the blood. Glucose is a sugar that comes from the foods we eat, and it’s also formed and stored inside the body. It’s the main source of energy for the cells of our body, and it’s carried to each cell through the bloodstream.

Having too much sugar in the blood for long periods of time can cause serious health problems if it’s not treated. Hyperglycemia can cause damage to the vessels that supply blood to vital organs, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, kidney disease, vision problems, and nerve problems in people with diabetes. These problems don’t usually show up in kids or teens with diabetes who have had the disease for only a few years. However, these health problems can occur in adulthood in some people with diabetes, particularly if they haven’t managed or controlled their diabetes properly.

So what are the symptoms of high blood glucose?

• Peeing a lot: The kidneys respond to high levels of glucose in the blood by flushing out the extra glucose in urine. People with diabetes need to urinate more often and in larger amounts.
• Drinking a lot: Because a person is losing so much fluid from peeing so much, he or she can get very thirsty.
• Losing weight even though your appetite has stayed the same: If there isn’t enough insulin to help the body use glucose, the body breaks down muscle and stored fat instead in an attempt to provide fuel to hungry cells.
• Feeling tired: Because the body can’t use glucose for energy properly, a person may feel unusually tired or sluggish.

If you are a diabetic and are on medications and are constantly feeling sluggish and tired – SEE YOUR DOCTOR!  In fact as a diabetic you should meet with your doctor on a regular basis.

There are a lot of things you can do to help lower your blood glucose levels: take your medicine on time, watch what you are eating, ensuring you are eating less more often (instead of 3 large meals, break it down to 5 smaller meals i.e., breakfast – snack – lunch – snack – dinner – snack), get exercise if you doctor has advised that for you.

Other things can increase your blood glucose levels such as illness stress, and even some medications.  If you are taking any OTC medications (over the counter) check with the pharmacist if there is any risk to you and ensure you let them know you are a diabetic.  In most cases the pharmacist will advise against certain OTC medications if you are a diabetic.  If you must take these – speak to your doctor and clear it with them.

If you are diabetic it is very important to stay in touch with your doctor and to follow your meal and medication plan to keep your diabetes under control.

Here is to your health!

Mohamed

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