Conditions

DIABETES

Do I have diabetes?

When the body produces too little insulin or the insulin produced does not work as it should, too much sugar is left in the bloodstream. This is known as diabetes. Diabetes is often called sugar diabetes. There are different types of diabetes, depending on the cause of increased blood sugar levels. When there is too little insulin being produced, it is known as type 1 (juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes). When there is a problem with the way your body metabolises insulin and glucose, this is known as type 2.

How does one develop diabetes?

While the cause of diabetes is unknown, it is believed to be related to genetics and environmental factors. Anyone, anywhere, at any age, can get diabetes, but being overweight with a family history of diabetes increases your risks of developing it.

Treatment options

While there is no cure for diabetes, it can be managed through lifestyle changes. Exercise and diet can go a long way in managing the disease and its complications for your health. Those who are prediabetic can prevent the progression of this disease through monitoring blood sugar levels.

Often times the glucose remains uncontrolled, even for those who make these changes towards a healthy lifestyle. In such cases, those with chronic diabetes may be prescribed insulin therapy by Dr Roos to maintain blood sugar levels. Insulin may be injected daily to help manage reasonable glucose control and avoid life-threatening complications.