Diabetes

Are there different types of diabetes?
Yes, there are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Can diabetes cause blindness and amputations?
Yes, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in people between 25 and 74.

Is diabetes hereditary?
Diabetes often runs in families. If one of your parents has diabetes, your chances of getting it immediately become significantly higher.

Should I wear a Medic Alert bracelet?
The Medic Alert bracelet should be worn by all diabetics. This bracelet will alert medical staff to your condition if you are in an accident or go into a diabetic coma.

What does blood sugar level mean?
Blood sugar level means the amount of glucose in the blood. Glucose is needed by the body as the basic energy fuel for all cells.

What is diabetes?
What is diabetes? This is a physical condition in which too much sugar accumulates in the bloodstream as a result of the body’s decreasing ability to produce insulin. This happens, because there is too little or nothing of the insulin hormone, produced by the pancreas, to allow the glucose to enter the cells of your body and give you the energy you need every day. This is a potentially very dangerous condition from which about 1,5 million South Africans suffer – half of them without knowing it. Most people suffer from Type 2 diabetes, which can largely be controlled by exercise and diet.

What sort of medication will I have to take?
Oral diabetes medication helps to control blood glucose levels in people who have Type 2 diabetes and who still produce some insulin. These drugs are usually prescribed along with recommendations to make certain dietary changes and to adhere to an exercise plan. If you have Type 1 diabetes, you will have to inject yourself every day with insulin. See your doctor for more information in this regard.

Why did I get diabetes?
No, it is not something you have done. Most people who develop diabetes have a genetic predisposition to the disease. This is especially true for people develop Type 1 diabetes at a young age. Many others who develop Type 2 diabetes have a family history of the disease. The people in this group are usually over 40 and overweight. The weight does not cause the disease, but merely makes it more likely to surface.

Will I still be able to have children?
Women who have diabetes can have safe and healthy pregnancies. What is important is to do regular checking of blood glucose levels during pregnancy, in order to ensure that the baby is healthy. Healthy eating and moderate exercise are also essential. There is also a type of diabetes called gestational diabetes, which some pregnant women develop. In most cases the diabetes disappears once the baby is born.

Can diabetes be fatal?
In some cases, a heart attack, a stroke or gangrene can be the result.

Do all diabetics get insulin injections?
No. Most diabetics have type 2 diabetes, which can be controlled through exercise, diet, regular medical checkups and medication, if necessary.

Is exercise important if I have diabetes?
The important thing is to have an exercise routine. This will also help to control your weight – an essential part of diabetes management.

What are the warning signs of diabetes?
Constant thirst, and increased appetite, frequent urination and constant fatigue are warning signs of diabetes. Blurred vision, slow-to-heal cuts, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, and recurring skin, mouth and bladder infections could all be signs that you have diabetes.

What foods should I avoid?
Foods that have a high sugar or fat content, such as pastries, cakes, chocolates, chips, sweets and desserts should be avoided. If eaten at all, it should be in very small quantities. Stay away from oily sauces and high-fat dairy products. Low-fat proteins, wholewheat grains, fruit and vegetables, starches and low-fat dairy products are recommended.

What medicines are there for treating Type 2 diabetes?
There are three main types to help you maintain blood sugar control - the first helps the body release more insulin into your bloodstream. The second prevents the body from sending extra sugar after a meal into the bloodstream and the third helps to overcome insulin resistance by making your cells more sensitive to the effects of insulin.

When should I measure my blood sugar levels?
One to two hours after a meal is the best time to measure your blood glucose levels. If your blood glucose levels are under control, once a week may be enough, but if not, consult with your doctor how often you need to test.

Will diabetes change my social or working life?
It shouldn’t change either of these two things. What you need to do is to become vigilant about your blood glucose levels and how certain foods and activities affect you. If you are careful and look after yourself, your working or social life need not change. You might have to reduce your drinking if you are used to having more than one drink a day. It is also important to get to bed at a regular hour, as a lack of sleep can wreak havoc with your insulin levels.