Chronic Diabetes Overview

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body converts food into energy, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Common Symptoms:

  • Fatigue
  • Increased thirst
  • Excessive hunger
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Frequent urination
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores or frequent infections

Types:

  • Type 1: Insufficient insulin from birth
    • Requires external insulin for management
    • Treatment involves insulin injections or insulin pump use
    • Requires frequent blood sugar checks and carbohydrate counting
    • Pancreas or islet cell transplant may be an option for some individuals
  • Type 2: Inadequate insulin production
    • Can often be managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications

Complications:

Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can lead to severe complications, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Vision loss or blindness
  • Kidney issues
  • Nerve damage (neuropathy)
  • Amputation due to circulation problems
  • Increased risk of infections

Types:

  • Type 1: Insufficient insulin from birth
    • Requires external insulin for management
    • Treatment involves insulin injections or insulin pump use
    • Requires frequent blood sugar checks and carbohydrate counting
    • Pancreas or islet cell transplant may be an option for some individuals
  • Type 2: Inadequate insulin production
    • Can often be managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications

Complications:

Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can lead to severe complications, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Vision loss or blindness
  • Kidney issues
  • Nerve damage (neuropathy)
  • Amputation due to circulation problems
  • Increased risk of infections

Management:

  • No cure, but symptoms and complications can be controlled
  • Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management
  • Medications: Insulin or oral medications, as prescribed
  • Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels

Ministry Wellness Center:

  • Dedicated to supporting individuals in managing diabetes
  • Offers glycemic index and calorie intake counseling
  • Provides personalized meal planning
  • Conducts exercise sessions and incorporates exercise planning
  • Two-hour meetings twice a week for comprehensive support
  • Focuses on enhancing overall well-being and confidence in living with diabetes.

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