Diabetes
The type of diabetes treatment you require will depend on a number of factors, including the type of diabetes that you have been diagnosed with. As well as the type of the condition there will also be other factors that influence the choice of diabetes treatment. In a lot instances the diabetic team may need to try a number of different approaches before they find a regime that is suitable. The aim is to reach a stage where your diabetes is controlled and not causing any problems in the body.
Why is Diabetes Treatment Required?
Diabetes occurs because the body isn't producing insulin (type 1- insulin dependent diabetes) or isn't producing it effectively enough (type 2- non insulin dependent diabetes). The fact that this hormone insulin is not available in sufficient quantities means that sugar can build up in the bloodstream. This is because insulin is required to remove sugar from the bloodstream and turn it into energy. If diabetes treatment isn't commenced then this excess sugar can build up to dangerous levels and cause serious problems.
Those who have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes can develop many complications because of the fact that they are not producing insulin. Without diabetes treatment they might suffer problems such as:
- Diabetic coma and possibly death
- Fainting spells
- Loss of limbs
- Confusion
- Erectile dysfunction
- Heart disease
- Sight problems
- Kidney damage
- Hearing loss
- Mental health problems
As you can see there can be serious problems caused by this condition and this is why diabetes treatment needs to be started as soon as possible.
Types of Diabetes Treatment
There are different diabetes treatment options available depending on the type of diabetes and the extent of the problem. If you have type 1 diabetes then this means that the body is not able to make any insulin and so you will need to get this elsewhere. It may be necessary for you to have regular insulin injections throughout the day. There are other options though, including the possibility of a pump that is small and mobile and will put insulin into your blood stream as you require it. Those with type 1 diabetes will also be expected to regularly check their blood sugar levels; this involves pricking their finger with a needle and testing the blood produced in a special device.
If you have type 2 diabetes then the usual treatment involves taking oral medications and diet sheets. Your pancreas is still able to produce some insulin but not enough to deal with a lot of sugar. You may be able to do a lot with lifestyle modifications and you will need to discuss this with your doctor and diabetic nurse about your diabetes treatment. Type 2 diabetes is often referred to as adult onset diabetes because it tends to only affect older people.
As you can see there are many possibilities with diabetes treatment. New treatments may arise in the future that will make control of this condition even easier.
