Understanding Diabetes in Adults: Warning Signs and Management Tips

Did you know that according to the Centers for Disease Control, over 38 million people (of all ages) are impacted by diabetes? That’s almost 12% of the U.S. population. Given the large amount of people diagnosed with this condition, it’s likely you know or love someone with diabetes.

While some types people with th

However, as we age, our risk of developing diabetes increases. Plus, the older we get, the more susceptible to different health problems we are. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the warning signs, different types, and the importance of managing the condition.

Warning signs of diabetes in adults

Diabetes can sneak up on you, and its symptoms can be mild or hard to notice at first. But if you know what to look for, you can catch it early and get help. Early intervention helps prevent your symptoms from becoming worse, causing more significant health problems.
Common conditions like kidney disease, vision problems, and heart disease also coexist with diabetes, increasing the risk for additional symptoms.

Some common signs of diabetes are:

• Feeling thirsty and hungry all the time
• Feeling fatigued or weak
• Having blurry vision
• Losing weight unintentionally
• Itchiness and dry skin or mouth
• Going to the bathroom more frequently due to high blood sugar levels
• Having cuts or bruises that take a long time to heal
• Feeling tingling or numbness in your hands and feet

Types of diabetes

Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels. While it’s often referred to as a single condition, there are actually several types of diabetes. Understanding the different types is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the main and most common types of diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type of diabetes typically develops in childhood or adolescence and requires insulin therapy to manage.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90% of all cases. It’s characterized by insulin resistance, where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, and impaired insulin secretion. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy, usually in the second or third trimester. It’s caused by hormonal changes and insulin resistance. Gestational diabetes typically goes away after pregnancy, but women who have had it are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults)

LADA is a form of type 1 diabetes that develops in adults, often after the age of 30. It’s characterized by a slow progression from insulin resistance to insulin deficiency.

MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young)

MODY is a rare form of diabetes caused by genetic mutations that affect insulin production. It typically develops in young adulthood and is often treated with lifestyle changes or oral medications.

Secondary Diabetes

Secondary diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops as a result of another medical condition or treatment, such as pancreatitis, pancreatic surgery, or certain medications.

Treatment and management tips

While there is no cure for diabetes, the condition can be managed with the right treatment plan. The primary goal of treatment is to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent complications.

Medication plays a crucial role in managing diabetes. While lifestyle changes are essential, they may not be enough to regulate blood sugar levels on their own. Medication like metformin, insulin, and sulfonylureas help to:

• Regulate insulin production or increase insulin sensitivity
• Reduce glucose production in the liver
• Slow the absorption of glucose from the gut

Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, along with monitoring blood sugar levels regularly to ensure they are within a healthy range, are also two treatments to help keep diabetes symptoms under control.

A healthy diet for diabetes management focuses on whole, unprocessed foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Regular exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.

Weight management is also essential, as excess weight can increase insulin resistance and worsen diabetes symptoms. However, it shouldn’t be the only focus of treatment.

Medication is often prescribed in conjunction with lifestyle changes. By combining these two approaches, adults with diabetes can effectively manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications.

Start holistic treatment for diabetes at Balance Psychiatric Services

If you’ve recently received a diabetes diagnosis, or believe you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s vital that you see a provider. Treating and managing your symptoms can make a difference in your health and overall quality of life. Diabetes is a serious condition, but it is manageable with the right support. At Balance Psychiatric Services, we work with you to diagnose and create a treatment plan that focuses on holistic care — meaning we look at the whole body and mind. We can’t wait to meet with you and start your diabetes treatment journey.