What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body converts food into energy. It occurs when your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use insulin effectively, leading to high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.

• Type 1 Diabetes: This occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
• Type 2 Diabetes: This is the more common form, where the body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough.

Causes of Diabetes:

• Genetics: Family history of diabetes increases the risk.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance.
• Poor Diet: High intake of sugary foods and unhealthy fats can contribute to obesity and insulin resistance.
• Age: The risk increases as you age, especially after 45 years.
• Hormonal Changes: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal disorders can increase the risk.
• Other Health Conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a history of gestational diabetes during pregnancy can increase risk.

Symptoms of Diabetes:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Extreme hunger
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet (mostly in Type 2)

Treatment Options for Diabetes:

1. Lifestyle Changes:

   • Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins can help manage blood sugar levels.
   • Exercise: Regular physical activity helps the body use insulin more effectively and maintain a healthy weight.
   • Weight Management: Losing excess weight can improve insulin sensitivity and control blood sugar levels.

2. Medications:

   • Oral Medications: For Type 2 diabetes, drugs like metformin help to lower blood glucose levels.
   • Insulin Therapy: People with Type 1 diabetes or advanced Type 2 diabetes often need insulin injections to regulate blood sugar.
   • GLP-1 Agonists: Newer injectable medications that help control blood sugar by mimicking hormones that reduce glucose production.

3. Monitoring Blood Glucose Levels: Regular monitoring helps patients manage blood sugar levels effectively.

4. Advanced Treatments:

   • Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs): Devices that provide real-time blood glucose data.
   • Insulin Pumps: Devices that continuously deliver insulin to keep blood glucose levels stable.
   • Pancreatic Transplants or Islet Cell Transplants: In some cases of severe Type 1 diabetes, transplants may be considered.

Why Choose AED Hospital for Diabetes Treatment?

1. Expert Diabetes Care Team: AED Hospital boasts a team of specialists in endocrinology, diabetes management, and nutrition who provide personalized treatment plans.

2. Comprehensive Diabetes Management: From early diagnosis to advanced treatment options, AED Hospital offers a wide range of services that cater to every stage of diabetes care.

3. Advanced Technology: AED Hospital is equipped with cutting-edge technology for continuous monitoring of glucose levels, advanced insulin therapies, and personalized care strategies.

4. Patient-Centered Approach: The hospital prioritizes patient education, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively through diet, exercise, and medication.

5. Holistic Care: Beyond medical treatment, AED Hospital provides counseling services to address mental and emotional health, which is crucial for managing a chronic condition like diabetes.

6. Ongoing Support and Follow-ups: Regular follow-ups and consultations ensure that patients receive continuous care and adjustments to their treatment plans as needed.

7. Collaborative Care: AED Hospital works with multidisciplinary teams (nutritionists, physiotherapists, diabetes educators) to provide well-rounded care that focuses on both the physical and emotional aspects of diabetes.