DIABETES is one of the most common illnesses in the Philippines yet many people do not know that they have it.
“Many people are being affected by diabetes, and some aren’t even aware that they have it. Poorly managed diabetes can lead to severe health complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and a blood vessel disease that may require amputation. That is why it’s vital to learn more about diabetes and if needed, seek proper treatment immediately,” says MediCard president and CEO Dr. Nicky Montoya.
HERE ARE SOME BASIC FACTS ON THE DISEASE.
• What is diabetes? Diabetes is a condition where the body either can’t produce insulin or does not use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that enables the body to use glucose that is found in food for energy. There are several types of diabetes but the most common are Type 1, where the pancreas does not produce insulin; and Type 2, where the body does not use insulin properly.
• What are its symptoms? People with diabetes experience frequent urination, excessive thirst, constant hunger, irritability, blurry vision, extreme and unexplained fatigue, wounds or cuts that are slow to heal, weight loss even if you are eating more, and tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet. In some cases, individuals with diabetes don’t show any symptoms, which is why it is very important to visit a doctor regularly for check-ups.
• What are its complications? People with diabetes are more prone to infections. High glucose levels and high blood pressure can also lead to cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve disease, and eye diseases, among others. To avoid complications, it’s important to regularly monitor and maintain blood glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol.
• How is it treated? To prevent complications, diabetics should have a meal plan prescribed by a dietitian. Eating healthy and engaging in physical activities will help the body break down insulin better and convert glucose into energy. Some patients need to take insulin injections and oral agents, pills which help diabetics produce more insulin or utilize insulin better. Visit a diabetes specialist regularly to monitor glucose levels.
• How does one prevent diabetes? To reduce one’s risk of developing diabetes, get moving and have a regular exercise routine like 30 minutes of walking a day. Reducing one’s consumption of alcohol and processed sugars such as candies and sodas while adding more food rich in monounsaturated fats like avocados, nuts and olive oil, is recommended.
