It is important to know if you have a family history of diabetes. It can be a sign of many potential life-threatening health problems.
Diabetes mellitus occurs when your pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Insulin regulates how much glucose (or energy) your body absorbs from the food you eat. If your body does not absorb the glucose from the food, it will try to obtain it from your fat or muscle stores. The unabsorbed glucose either remains in your blood or is flushed out through your urine or other bodily fluids.
There are two types of diabetes mellitus. Diabetes type one is also known as juvenile diabetes, because it is most often diagnosed in children. This type is insulin dependent and people with the disorder must have regular injections of insulin to keep their bodily systems in working order.
Type 2 diabetes is also known as adult-onset diabetes because it most often occurs in people over the age of 40. It is also known as insulin-independent diabetes because it is most often controlled by diet alone. Most often, this type of diabetes occurs in those who are overweight because of overeating.
If you have a family member who is diabetic, there is a greater chance you also may develop the condition. In type one diabetes, this is likely because of genetics. In Type 2, this can either be because of genetics or because you have carried on the overeating habits of the diabetic person.
Your own medical history also plays a factor in whether you develop diabetes. For example, women who have had pregnancy gestational diabetes are at greater risk for developing diabetes as they age. Also, if you have such hormonal conditions such as acromegaly, hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis or Cushing’s syndrome, diabetes can occur as a secondary condition. If you have or have had any of these conditions, it is important to have your blood sugars checked regularly as you age.
There are many risks to diabetes, no matter which type. The disorder can result in eye, nerve, kidney or foot problems. Diabetes can also lead to atherosclerosis in which the arteries and veins narrow. This is especially common in the legs, feet and toes. Many diabetics have had these body parts amputated. Diabetics are also at greater risk of strokes and heart attacks.
If you have a history of diabetes, see your doctor as soon as possible so you can get tested and start treatment quickly. Remember, diabetes is not a death sentence but it requires immediate action.
The early history of diabet… Read more…
Forum: News & Interesting Link… Read more…
Association Between Parental History of Type 2 Diabetes and …
RESULTS—In the comparisons b… Read more…
