One of the most frequently diagnosed conditions year after year is diabetes in man. Diabetes mellitus is a serious metabolic condition that can lead to serious health complications and even death. There are two types of diabetes mellitus. However, the most common type of diabetes in man (adult) is type II (insulin resistant) diabetes mellitus.
Type II diabetes mellitus is caused when then body becomes resistant to the insulin hormone. The insulin hormone assists the body in metabolizing blood sugar. If blood sugar cannot be metabolized properly, diabetes mellitus occurs.
Type II diabetes is typically diagnosed in adulthood. However, with many of the health complications children are experiencing due to diet and lifestyle, more children are being diagnosed with type II diabetes every year.
Risk factors for diabetes in man include a poor diet that is high in sugar and processed foods, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, a family history of type II diabetes, and generally poor health and lifestyle.
Diabetes in Man: Signs and Symptoms
There are many signs and symptoms of diabetes mellitus. If you are experiencing any of these signs, contact your physician to be screened for diabetes immediately. An effective treatment plan is necessary to prevent horrible health complications due to untreated or poorly controlled diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus signs and symptoms may include urinary issues, unexplained and excessive thirst and/or hunger, vision issues or changes, and pungent sweet smelling body odors or breath.
Diabetes Mellitus Definition
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough of the insulin hormone (type I) or the body becomes resistant to the insulin hormone (type II).
Type I diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or in young adulthood. Type I diabetics require regular insulin injections or an insulin pump. At this time, type I diabetes is not curable.
Type II diabetes is typically diagnosed in adulthood. However, as previously stated, more and more children are being diagnosed with this condition. Type II diabetes is preventable and reversible.
Diabetes in Man: Treatment Options
The best treatment option for type II diabetes mellitus is prevention. Leading a healthy lifestyle can prevent this disease. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, these are the typical treatment options.
With both types of diabetes, it is necessary to check and log your blood sugar several times per day. You also need to follow a diabetic diet and journal everything you consume. Your doctor might also recommend that you follow a regular exercise and activity plan.
People with type I diabetes will also need to inject insulin several times per day or you will need to use an insulin pump.
People with type II diabetes may require insulin. Oral medications may also be prescribed to help the cells utilize the insulin more effectively.
There are other available treatment options for diabetes mellitus. These include herbal treatments, holistic treatments, and alternative treatments. It is important to speak with your physician before changing your treatment plan. If your treatment plan is not helping control your diabetes well, contact your physician to discuss alternatives. You may also want to consider getting a referral to a diabetes specialist.
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