Diabetes Treatments Overview

Diabetes (also known by the full medical term as 'Diabetes mellitus') describes a number of related metabolic diseases in which the body cannot regulate the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood, leading to 'high blood sugar' condition.

Glucose is a simple sugar that while in the blood, gives us energy to perform our daily activities. The blood glucose level is regulated by several hormones, including insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. The insulin is most important as it allows the glucose to move from the blood into liver, muscle, and fat cells, where it is used as 'fuel'.

Diabetes Video

Diabetes Types

In diabetes, the glucose cannot move into the cells and this harms the cells which need the glucose or harms other organs due to the high glucose levels in the blood. There are three types of diabetes, each originating in a different condition.

Type 1 Diabetes: The body fails to produce insulin or a sufficient amount of it to regulate blood glucose level, as the body's own immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas (this type comprises about 10% of total cases).
Type 2 Diabetes: The body is partially or totally unable to use the insulin produces by the pancreas, a condition sometimes referred to as 'insulin resistance'. This results in the body trying to overcome this condition by producing more and more insulin (this type comprises about 90% of total cases).
Gestational Diabetes: Occurs only in pregnant women in the second half of their pregnancy, in which they have high levels of glucose. Women who have gestational diabetes are more likely than other women to develop 'type 2 diabetes' later in life.
Pre-diabetes: A condition that is related to diabetes that describes people with a blood sugar level that is higher than normal. Having a condition of 'pre-diabetes' increases the risk for developing 'type 2 diabetes'.

Diabetes Treatments

Both type 1 and 2 of diabetes are chronic conditions that usually cannot be cured. Treatment of these diseases focuses on keeping blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. Treatment for these types of diabetes can include:

• Constant monitoring of blood sugar levels.
• Insulin medication.
• Other oral medications – Usually intended of people who body still produce some insulin.
• A transplant. This option can include a 'Pancreas transplant' or 'Islet Cell transplantThe transplantation of isolated islets (pancreas cells) from a donor's pancreas into the patient. Once transplanted, the islets begin to produce insulin. (Source: Wikipedia)'.

Pregnant women with 'gestational diabetes' are usually guided to adjusting their diet and beginning an exercise regime. The physician will monitor blood sugar levels and may also include insulin medication if needed.

People with pre-diabetes can return their blood sugar levels to normal by keeping healthy life style (watching their weight and exercising), or at least prevent it from rising and developing into type 2 diabetes. Patients at a high risk may also be prescribed with oral medications.

Diabetes Treatment Abroad

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, but type 2 and gestational diabetes can be prevented by leading a healthy life style, not being overweight with the help of a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Diabetes diseases are not a simple diagnosis but can be dealt with and managed. TicketMed consultants will be happy to assist you and explain whatever you need to know about managing and treating these diseases. Contact us or ask for a quote.