Type 2 Diabetes - How a Diagnosis Changes Your Life

A few years ago, my sister was also diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. By that time, she had gone through years of steadily declining health -- nothing firm that you could have pointed to, but a continual feeling of being tired and run down. We thought it was because she was a mother of two young children. Eventually she decided to ask her doctor about it anyways, just in case is was something else. They ordered some blood tests and found out she was diabetic. She was only 35 when she was diagnosed.



Her doctor explained that Type 2 diabetes was also called 'adult-onset' diabetes since it was mostly adults that developed the disease (we have since learned that it's increasingly found in children too). It's mostly a lifestyle disease. A family history puts you at higher risk, but the way you live makes a big difference in the likelihood you develop the disease.



We had always known, in a vague way, that being overweight wasn't healthy. My sister has been moderately overweight since she was a teenager. Her doctor had told her repeatedly that it would be best if she lost weight, but he never mentioned the possibility of diabetes and it just didn't occur to us. We had thought that diabetes was something that adults over 50 developed, not younger adults like us.



My sister tried a few diets and lost a few pounds here and there but always regained them, along with a few more pounds on top of that. After her diabetes diagnosis, she was told that being overweight significantly increases the risk of getting the disease because your body becomes more resistant to the effects of insulin. Insulin lowers the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood, and if there's too much then all sorts of symptoms start to appear. You find yourself thirsty all the time, having to go to the bathroom a lot, and you feel hungry, tired, and itchy, among other signs. Worse, untreated diabetes can lead to much more serious complications like heart and kidney problems.



Diabetes changes your life in very big ways. My sister now cooks and eats a healthy diet but even after all these years, it's hard for her because her husband and children can enjoy treats and convenience foods that she cannot. She has struggled -- and succeeded -- in losing weight and keeping it off. Her biggest struggle is to maintain an exercise routine. Due to the diabetes, she has poor circulation and problems with her feet, which makes it even harder for her to exercise. But she has to do it: exercise is one of those things that helps to keep her blood sugar under control. She has to monitor her blood sugar every day. The good news is that she used to take insulin but has gotten the disease under control well enough that she is no longer on medication. She manages her diabetes with a strict diet and exercise plan.



The big risk factors for Type 2 diabetes are: family history, being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and eating a poor diet that's high in refined or processed foods and sugar.



If you have these risk factors you should talk to your doctor and come up with a plan to lower your risk. We've noticed that a healthy diet for diabetics is basically the same as a healthy diet for everyone, with lots of fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy. Exercise is really important too. Even a 1/2 hour walk every day helps. Eating well and exercise also helps in weight loss too.



Even if you don't show any symptoms of diabetes right now, you can still be at risk. Type 2 diabetes develops slowly and many people show normal blood sugar levels for years before being diagnosed. It's so much easier to do things now to lower your risk, then to have to try to control the disease after you get it.

Type 2 Diabetes - Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Your Diabetes Diagnosis

It can be overwhelming when you first receive a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. You will naturally have so many questions you definitely will want answered. The first thing to do is compile a list of questions you have for your doctor.



Even if you come up with questions of your own, make sure to include the following ten questions in your list:



1. How often will you need to monitor your blood sugar?



2. What type of diet and exercise changes will you need to make?



3. Will you need to take medicine? If so, what kind, how much, and how often? Will you need to stay on it forever, or increase the dosage? Will you ever need to change from oral medications to injectable insulin?



4. What are the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar? And high blood sugar?



5. What should you do if your blood sugar rises or dips too much? At what levels do you want me to treat high or low blood sugar on my own? Who should I call when my blood sugar gets really high (for example 350 mg/dL or 19.4 mmol/L), or really low (for example lower than 50 mg/dL or 2.8 mmol/L)?



6. What is the glycemic index and how important is it?



7. What do you do if you want to eat out in a restaurant? Or at a friend's home?



8. Is Type 2 diabetes for life?



9. What are some of the complications for someone diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes?



10. Are there any resources available to help with the cost of medication and necessary equipment for managing your diabetes?



Write down everything you think of. It might seem insignificant, but it could make a huge difference in your treatment. Diabetes is different between individuals. What may affect one person might be irrelevant for another. You have to treat your condition personally. It is best to never assume an answer.



Remember when you are asking your doctor questions, pay close attention to the responses. Make sure you fully understand the answers and if you don't understand ask the doctor to clarify the answer for you.



You will also need to take the initiative and read everything that you can about your condition. The more information you have, the better you will be able to manage your condition. Information is power and it will give you a great measure of control over your health situation.



You will find you can live a healthy, enjoyable life if you have the necessary tools to effectively manage your Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is an illness full of choices. You can choose to eat well, exercise, and monitor your blood sugar in the hope one day you can manage it and control it without the use of medications. Or, you can ignore it and suffer from the consequences. It is all up to you.

Type 2 Diabetes - Making the Diagnosis

According to the American Diabetes Association, an estimated 6 million people in the United States have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes but don't know it yet!  This is because the signs and symptoms of this insidious disease are often subtle in onset, slow in development and sporadic in appearance.  As such, it is often called the "silent" killer.



When you experience any two of the following symptoms coupled with high-risk factors like family history, race and age, you are well advised to hightail it your health care provider so he can order blood tests for you:



1.  Excessive Thirst and Frequent Urination:



Because your body's insulin supply cannot process glucose in the normal way, glucose simply builds up in your blood.  In turn, your kidneys must work overtime to absorb the excess and filter it out of your body through your urine.



This make frequent urination an inconvenient part of your life, day and night.  And you drink more fluid due to feeling dehydrated and so the cycle continues.



2.  Abnormal Weight Fluctuations:



Sudden weight variations are a result of two things in type 2 diabetes.  First, unintentional weight loss occurs due to the large amount of fluid lost through frequent urination.  Second, you experience constant hunger due to the high amount of insulin in your bloodstream: this causes you to snack on high-carbohydrate, high-fat foods and gain weight in the process.



It's a vicious cycle and you might just attribute it to stress.



3.  Slow Healing Rate for Infections:



Those who unknowingly suffer from diabetes will observe that frequent infections of the skin, gums, bladder and vagina are very slow to heal.  Even with antibiotics and vitamin supplements, people with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes endure sores, cuts and bruises that are easily contracted but difficult to treat; often lingering for weeks on end.



It seems high blood glucose levels reduce your immune system's ability to fight off infection. Thus, if you notice gum infections that simply will not go away, consult your health care provider instead of your dentist.



4.  Blurred Vision:



If you notice your vision blurring, you have to consider the possibility of diabetes especially if you have several of the high risk factors. This occurs when your ocular lens fill with fluid due to high blood sugar levels and changes the way the lens refracts light. 



And it is not just blurred vision that you have to worry about when type 2 diabetes remains undetected and untreated. You also have to think of the long-term complications like glaucoma, cataract and diabetic retinopathy, all of which can and will affect the quality of your life.



Again, it must be emphasized that if you notice any of these symptoms, you must consult your health care provider as soon as possible.  Type 2 diabetes can have many implications on your health.  High blood sugar levels are able to affect every part of your body.

Type 2 diabetes symptoms-early detection of diabetes can increase the life span!

Type 2 diabetes is becoming a growing problem these days, with more and more people become overweight or obese. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body produces enough insulin, but does not recognize it somehow so that blood sugar levels remain high. Often, when people gain a lot of weight and become considerably overweight, their propensity for diabetes type 2 jumps significantly. In fact, type 2 diabetes is one of the main health problems present today, and the children, too, are becoming victims of this disorder more preventable.



Unfortunately, often, diabetes type 2 has no symptoms and damage without victims know about it. It is only when damage has already occurred that diabetes is discovered. Therefore, it is essential to exercise and eat right and keep your weight under control. Physicals and regular check-ups by doctors are an important way to prevent type 2 diabetes. If you already know that you have the disease, be aware that you can't live and symptoms should then follow doctors ' orders to the letter, even if you feel "well".



Now, it should be noted that type 2 diabetes is different from type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs because the body attacks itself and destroys or reduces the body's ability to make insulin. Insulin is produced in the pancreas, and when insulin-producing cells are destroyed, the body cannot make more insulin. In this case, dietary changes won't help with the condition, and the extra insulin must be taken. Blood sugar must be checked frequently as well.



In contrast, type 2 diabetes occurs mainly due to poor nutrition and overweight. In this case, the chronically elevated levels of sugar in the blood as a result of poor diet or excessive overeating without getting enough exercise will reduce the effectiveness of insulin in controlling blood sugar. More often, the body produces enough insulin, but most recognize cells and blood sugar levels remain high. Alternatively, the pancreas can also reduce insulin levels, which produces as it becomes overtaxed.



Symptoms of type 2 diabetes may be non-existent or can include excessive thirst, vision problems, constant hunger, frequent urination, or feeling tired. You can also cut yourself and find that you heal more slowly than it should. If any of these symptoms are present, seek medical advice immediately.



As stated earlier, the type 2 diabetes can be a "silent" disease, which means that you can have and not know how to do. One of the most common things that occurs with type 2 diabetes is that you can begin to experience symptoms such as tingling fingers or toes (peripheral neuropathy), blurred vision, or chest pains or shortness of breath. Again, as with bothersome symptoms, you should consult your doctor.



The good news is, type 2 diabetes can certainly be controlled and can even go into remission, provided you return appropriate eating habits and look closely at your blood glucose. Your doctor will probably prescribe medicines to help control the blood sugar and ask to adhere to a rigorous program of diet and exercise. If you are overweight, lose the excess. Simply lose weight and achieve a normal weight, once again can cause type 2 diabetes go into remission.

Reactive Hypoglycemia and Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome: Diagnosis and Getting Back to Normal

If you have recently been diagnosed with Reactive Hypoglycemia, or Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome, you are probably like me when I was first diagnosed. I was confused, exhausted, and didn't have a clue as to what to do because the doctors virtually did nothing for me or to help me! However, don't worry, there is hope and you can get back to a good life!



When I was first diagnosed with Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome, only after hours of researching my symptoms and suggesting Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome to the doctors, I had been struggling with all kinds of symptoms for weeks! It was scary and miserable to say the least! I knew there was a connection with what I was eating and my symptoms!



I was making frequent trips to the emergency room only to be told, "You are fine." My symptoms included tachycardia (rapid resting heart rates), panic attacks, tremors, light-headedness, freezing cold hands and feet and total confusion! However, because I didn't have "low glucose" levels as defined by the medical community, I was not diagnosed with Reactive Hypoglycemia.



Doctors checked everything on me! My heart, my brain, my pituitary, my thyroid... you name it, it was checked. I would literally go in to the ER one day, they would release me the next, and then admit me later the same day. Then, after being in and out of their hospital for six long days, they simply told me, "You are free to go." Huh?



Yea! I was free to go! Free to go back home, and to go through all of the hell I went through before? Don't think so! This time I was going to do things differently. I was going to dive in and find out just what foods I could and could not eat, when to eat and how to beat this thing! I already had a suspicion that my problem was Reactive Hypoglycemia or Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome based on research I had done online (The diagnosis finally given... well somewhat anyway.)



Since I didn't have the demonstrably low glucose levels, a few folks at the doc's office gave me the soft diagnosis of Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome. (I think they were embarrassed!) Basically, I have all the same symptoms of Reactive Hypoglycemia without actually having low glucose levels. So, knowing this, I would have thought that my endocrinologist would give me some help with my diet. Ha! Not hardly!



So, there I was, back on the net, reading studies and diets and trying to put it all together myself. Little did I know the journey was not nearly over! I had to completely redo my diet and practically run clinical trials on myself! Constantly trying to find the right amounts of foods to eat, what kinds of foods to eat and when to eat them. Personally I found that a diet high in fiber, protein, some fat and very little carbohydrates worked for me, but it was very precise. Since I worked out, I had to account for that in my diet and provide the proper nutrition needed to support my workout.



The diet consisted of eating every 2 to 2.5 hours. My daily diet would be something like this: Breakfast, a tiny quarter cup of oatmeal in the morning with butter and a tablespoon of coconut oil, 3 egg whites and a serving of cottage cheese. 2 hours later a whey protein shake with a scoop of peanut butter. 2 hours later for lunch, 6 ounces of steak, a quarter of a sweet potato with butter and a cheese stick. 2 hours from that for an afternoon snack, an Atkins bar. Then, if I was working out (1 hour weight lifting workout), I would take 2 glucose tablets right before my workout and 2 during my workout. After my workout I would immediately have a sugar free, whey protein shake, and 1 to 1.5 hours from my shake I would have a steak and spinach salad with a few blueberries and feta cheese. To top it all off for the day, I would usually have yet another whey protein shake.



Today I am pretty much back to normal, although I do have small episodes here and there and am constantly learning new things about my condition and how to treat it with diet. If you are looking to get better and get a handle on Reactive Hypoglycemia or Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome, it starts with diet! Make the choice to eat better! Be determined and have hope that you will be back to feeling better soon!

Diabetes Diagnosis

While there have been major developments in the treatment of diabetes it is the diagnosis of diabetes which is the greatest challenge going forward. Once you have been diagnosed as a diabetic the treatment is fairly straightforward and should not impact upon your standard of living and your quality of life in the longer-term. However, diabetes diagnosis is essential in the fight against the condition because many people believe that for every one person diagnosed with diabetes there is potentially one person remaining undiagnosed.



Signs of diabetes



There are many small telltale signs which could indicate a pre-diabetes phase which include extreme thirst, nausea, tiredness, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, fatty liver and the excess production of urine. Many of these symptoms on their own may not cause any alarm but once you start to put two or more symptoms together there is the potential that your body is trying to warn you about diabetes.



Diabetes screening tests



Diabetes is one of those unfortunate conditions for which there is no simple test which will give a definitive yes or no answer as to whether you have the condition. Ultimately a diabetes screening test will check the level of sugar in your blood and it will then be up to the medical profession to decide whether you are at risk of diabetes or indeed whether you have developed the condition.



The screening tests are very simple, very quick and very effective and the more tests carried out around the world the greater the opportunity to understand more about diabetes and further developments in treatment will follow.



How common is diabetes?



There's no doubt that over the last 10 or 20 years there has been a massive increase in the number of people suffering from diabetes. However, it is the obesity epidemic which is gripping the world that is the major concern going forward because many people believe that the recent increase in diabetic sufferers is only the tip of the iceberg and will get very much worse in the future.



It is also the fact that diabetes is now commonplace amongst those in their 20s when only a few years ago it was more commonplace in those aged 40 and above. A general reduction in the health, dietary habits and exercise regime of younger people today is potentially leading us down a very difficult and dangerous path.



Will diabetes change my life?



There is no doubt that those who have been diagnosed with diabetes who need to make changes in various areas of their life but ultimately the treatment is now available to ensure a high standard of living and a long lasting life. By simply changing your dietary habits and your exercise regime, together with the introduction of various medications, life can and does go on as normal.



Conclusion



Diabetes diagnosis is the first point of attack when looking to reduce future instances of the condition. Once a person is diagnosed as a diabetic then treatment can begin and potentially life-threatening situations present before the diagnosis can then be avoided.

Clinical Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus

Clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is suspected from the symptoms and signs like:



Frequent urination
Excessive thirst.
Craving for sweets and starches
Weakness.
Unexplained weight loss
Blurred vision
Itching of the skin
Drowsiness
Tingling or numbness in feet,
Nausea
Vomiting
Slow and poor healing of cuts and wounds
Infections, Diabetes greatly reduces ones ability to resist infections
Vaginal infections



The laboratory confirmation of diabetes mellitus is based on the following tests:



1. Fasting and random blood glucose estimation
2. 2 hour glucose level after food
3. Urine test for glucose
4. Oral glucose tolerance test.



The interpretation of the above test states that a high fasting blood sugar associated with detection of glucose in urine in conjunction with symptoms suggestive of diabetes mellitus should confirm this disease.



Every suspected cases of diabetes, therefore, is strongly advised to see a qualified medical practitioner for proper investigation and diagnosis of this disease.



There can be long term complications of diabetes mellitus and these complications can be in terms of health effects. From narrowing of the large arteries, leading to heart attacks, strokes and gangerene. Sometimes, there are problems in the blood vessels behind the eye, leading to retinopathy and sometimes blindness. And the kidney where it may progress to renal failure.



Health experts have observed that the debilitating effects of diabetes mellitus are many and reported that epidemiology studies are involved in the disease and obesity are the risk factors for atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis has been identified as the most common complication of diabetes and responsible for the death of 75 percent of diabetic Americans. Available results also show that atherosclerosis leads to heart attacks, strokes and gangrene.



Diabetic patients have always been bothered by possible easy diabetes control measures that will enable them get on with their life.



Below are few sure diabetes control, prevention and management tips that will help you put the problem of diabetes to a reasonable level, if not cured entirely:



- Dietary management. In general principle, dietary measures are required in the treatment of all diabetic patients in order to achieve the overall therapeutic goal.



- Endeavor to exercise yourself as much as possible.

Diabetes Mellitus - 6 Steps to Accurate Diagnosis

Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus requires that certain tests be carried out on the patient before you can conclude whether or not he/she has the problem. The steps to take to get an accurate diagnosis include:



1. History: The personal history from the patient coupled with physical examination and the classical signs of diabetes - polyuria (glucose in urine), polydipsia (abnormal thirst) and polyphalgia (excessive hunger) are often diagnostic. However, for the purpose of confirming the diagnosis, some laboratory tests have to be conducted, and they include:



2. Fasting Blood Glucose: The normal fasting blood glucose level in an adult without diabetes is 70-110mg/dl (4.5-5.6mmol/l). With diabetes mellitus this value becomes higher. Before the test is carried out the individual abstains from food for at least 8 hours. The individual is only allowed to take water, but other things capable of stimulating metabolism e.g. cigarette, tea, coffee, etc. should be avoided. Value above 110mg/dl is indicative of diabetes.



3. Post-Prandial Blood Glucose: An oral glucose load is administered to the patient and the serum glucose level is checked after 2 hours. In normal adult, serum glucose is expected to be less than 140mg/dl 2hours after ingesting the meal. But in diabetes mellitus the level returns to normal very slowly. If the value is above 180mg/dl after 2hours, this signifies that the individual is diabetic.



4. Glucose Tolerance Test: Prior to the test the patient is given a high carbohydrate meal of 150g for 3 days. Specimen of blood and urine are then collected at intervals of 1, 2, and 3hours and their sugar levels evaluated. A high level usually indicates the presence of diabetes. The nurse or the lab technician should however be sure that the patient is not having any physical illness, emotional stress or physical stress as these may interfere with the result since hormones secreted under these conditions influence blood sugar levels. All drugs that can influence blood glucose tolerance (oestrogen, steroids, salicylates, diuretics, etc.) should be stopped at least 3 days prior to the test. The test should be carried out in the morning because glucose tolerance decreases later in the noon. Specimen should as well be collected to serve as control.



5. Intravenous and Oral Tolbutamide Response Test: Tolbutamide stimulates endogenous secretion of insulin and indicates the pancreatic function; hence it is used as a confirmatory test for suspected diabetes mellitus. The patient abstains from food the night before the test. In the morning following the fast, a baseline fasting blood sugar is then taken. Tolbutamide is thereafter given to him and the blood specimens are taken 20 and 30 minutes after. The result shows a slower rate of decrease of blood glucose in the diabetic.



6. Urinalysis: Urinalysis may also be done to have an idea of the sugar level in the urine. Though this test is not diagnostic, it serves as a guide. The urine should be tested for the presence of glucose, albumin, white blood cells, casts and organisms to rule out glomerulosclerosis and urinary tract infection.

Best Laboratory Tests For Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus

History and physical examination are most important tools for diagnosing diabetes Mellitus, however to confirm diagnosis one should have following laboratory tests.



Urine sugar test



Urine ketones test



OGTT-Oral Glucose Tolerance Test, (also called glucose challenge test)



Blood glucose tests



FPG-Fasting plasma glucose Test



Random plasma glucose Test



Tests for ongoing monitoring of diabetes control:
HbA1c blood test - an average blood sugar measure over about 3 months.
Fructosamine blood test - an average blood sugar measure over about 2 weeks



It is not necessary that one should have all the tests given in above list, but it is necessary to diagnose your disease if you want best treatment for your illness.



How frequently a person must check his sugar level is the decision of your doctor. It mainly depends upon patients age and number of risk factors like blood pressure, higher cholesterol or smoking. If you are above 45 years then you should have your blood sugar level after every 3 years. Even if you are below 45 years and have one or more risk factors then you should also check your blood sugar level frequently.



A- Urine sample for sugar and Ketones:
You may have your urine analysis for sugar or ketones which are produced by breakdown of fat and muscle cells to diagnose diabetes but you should keep in mind that if you are having positive urine test for sugar then it is not necessary that you are suffering from diabetes because there are other conditions as well which also cause sugar to appear in urine.



B-THE FASTING BLOOD GLUCOSE (SUGAR) TEST
For diagnosing Diabetes Mellitus one must have this test because it is best, easy and comfortable to perform. You should have overnight fast (at-least 8 hours) before performing this test. If fasting blood glucose is below 100mg/dl, then you don't have diabetes. Between 100mg/dl to 125mg/dl is called a Pre-diabetes or Impaired fasting glucose condition. If fasting blood glucose is above 126mg/dl on more than two occasions then you are suffering from diabetes.



C-RANDOM (NON-FASTING) BLOOD GLUCOSE TEST
It is also a good test for diagnosing diabetes. In this test we take sample of blood shortly after taking a meal and then check glucose level in blood. If this level is above 200mg/dl, then there are much chances that you are suffering from diabetes. But diagnosis should be confirmed the very next day by fasting blood glucose or by glucose tolerance test



D-ORAL GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST (OGTT):
Though this test is not commonly used these days but it is still a gold standard for diagnosing diabetes. For diagnosing gestational diabetes this is best test.



Instructions for OGTT:
This is test for a person who is in good health and have no other illness.
Person should be normally active and not bed ridden.
Person is not taking anti diabetic drugs or any drug which alters blood sugar level.
Before test, person should eat high carbohydrate diet for three days.
No alcoholic beverages.
On test day one should not smoke or take coffee.



Glucose Tolerance Test Procedure:
First normal blood glucose is tested. Then person drinks 75gm of glucose, for pregnant woman dose of glucose is 100 gm. Then blood samples are taken at particular intervals for measuring blood glucose level.Blood glucose level is measured five times over a period of 3 hours. In simple words, in normal person, this blood sugar level gets higher value by taking 75gm of glucose, however it falls down quickly, but in person having diabetes the blood sugar level rises higher than normal but does not come down quickly. If a person have fasting blood glucose above 140mg/dl and 2 hours value after 75gm of oral glucose greater than 200mg/dl and considered as diabetics. If 2 hours blood glucose value between 140-200mg/dl is labeled as Pre-diabetic condition or impaired fasting glucose. During pregnancy, 2 hours blood glucose value between 140-200mg/dl is treated as a case of diabetes.



OTHER TESTS
Glycosylated haemoglobin Test or HB A1 Test:
Very important test which tells you how good you are in controlling your blood sugar. It shows your blood sugar control during the past 2 to 3 months. For normal individuals, a good hemoglobin A-1-c is 7 percent.



Intravenous GTT:
This test is performed in indviduals who have intestinal disease or malabsorption.



Extended GTT:
In this the oral Glucose Tolerance Test is extended to 3-4 hours rather than 2 hours, for appearance of symptoms of hyperglycaemia.



In short if your fasting blood glucose is more than 126mg/dl on two or more days, or your random blood glucose is above 200mg/dl or your oral glucose tolerance test is positive i.e 2 hours blood glucose value between above 200mg/dl after 75gm of glucose, then you are suffering from Diabetes Mellitus.

What Are the Best Laboratory Tests for the Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is being detected more frequently in today's society, and it can affect both children and adults. Causation between age groups may vary, yet it is a serious disease that requires constant care. Contracting Type 1 diabetes, also known as "childhood onset," will display symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, and clamminess or sweatiness. This affliction becomes apparent when the pancreas, an organ that secretes insulin into the body, ceases to function. Insulin is a hormone that, when distributed efficiently, regulates glucose levels. When the pancreas no longer works properly, diabetes occurs.



A Diabetic specialist or endocrinologist will run a blood test to determine average blood sugar levels over the previous 2 to 3 months. This test is called "A1C hemoglobin," and it will help determine if the patient has Type I or Type II diabetes. Type I requires insulin injections and Type II can be dealt with a few different ways, depending upon severity. Often times, oral medication is prescribed, yet in some rare cases it can be eradicated by diet and exercise.



Either way, the patient will need to obtain a glucose monitor and use it regularly until the condition is manageable. Checking blood sugar levels on a daily basis will take some getting used to, yet performing this task regularly can help save the patient from suffering adverse effects from the disease. Neglect is not an option; testing 3 to 4 times daily is recommended.



Most monitors require a small drop of blood from the fingertip or the inside of the forearm. The sample is then applied to a test strip that is inserted into the monitor itself, and within 5 seconds, a number will appear. An average healthy reading will range from 80 to 130 mg/dl (milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood). Results will often vary; most physicians will concur that staying within these guidelines can promote better overall health, yet consulting with a diabetic specialist is the best advice. A trained physician will be able to show the patient a variety of glucose monitors that use different sized lithium batteries. The test strips vary in size as well, and they are only compatible with the same brand of meter. Written records of the daily results should be kept. Most glucose monitors will come with a miniature log book, which can help both doctor and patient when it is time for the next visit.

Canine Diabetes - Diagnosis and Treatment of Diabetes in Dogs

Dog Diabetes



There are two kinds of canine diabetes: diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus. Diabetes mellitus is much more common and involves problems with the breakdown of carbohydrates, and resultant problems maintaining sufficient levels of insulin. Diabetes insipidus occurs less frequently and is caused by reduced production of antidiuretc hormone.



Canine Diabetes Mellitus



This form of canine diabetes is the most common and is similar in many ways to diabetes in humans. It is generally an inherited condition, though in some cases it can be caused by reactions to medication or diets high in sugar.



Diabetes mellitus is characterized by the following symptoms:



ท Frequent urination (polyuria)



ท Extreme thirst (polydipsia)



ท Overeating (polyphagia)



ท Reduced immunity levels - Lower resistance to bacterial and viral infections causes a greater occurrence of bronchitis and pneumonia to occur. Also common is inflammation of the urinary tract (cystitis), prostate gland (prostatitis) or skin (dermatitis).



ท Weakened eyesight - In extreme cases cataracts might make the eyes appear cloudy.



Treatment options for diabetes mellitus include the following:



ท Changes in diet - Use a veterinary dog food, like Purina Veterinary Diets DCO Dual Fiber Control Dry Dog FoodorRoyal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Diabetic HF 18 Dry Dog Food, that is specifically formulated to control blood sugar.



ท Insulin intake - Can be administered either orally or hypodermically.



ท Prescription of glycocemides - To stimulate natural insulin production.



Canine Diabetes Insipidus



This form of canine diabetes is relatively rare and is not inherited, but acquired. It is usually caused by a growth on the pituitary gland that results in reduced function and consequent reductions ADH hormone secretion. Similar problems in the hypothalamus gland can also help trigger the condition.



Dogs affected by canine diabetes often exhibit the following symptoms:



ท Frequent urination



ท Extreme thirst



A veterinarian might also be able to observe lesions in the hind brain as well as compression in the hypothalamus.



Treatment options for diabetes insipidus focus primarily on the use of medicated drops to help treat dryness in the eyes and nasal passages as a result of frequent urination.

Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and natural treatment options

Diabetes mellitus is a disorder of glucose metabolism that is due to the inability of the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin to the body (type 1) or due to the inability of the cells of the body to use insulin (type 2). The cells lose the ability to use insulin when they were overloaded with insulin for too long. Insulin Overload due to constant blood sugar spikes.



Normal blood glucose level varies from 70-100 mg per 100 ml, but if the level of fasting blood sugar rises more than 120 mg/100 ml, so it should be suspected diabetes mellitus. This chronic hyperglycemia, from whatever cause, leading to a series of complications such as cardiovascular, kidney infections, neurological, or intercurrent eyepieces.



Diabetes has 2 types:



1-juvenile-onset or insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM)
2-adult or maturity onset or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM)



IDDM is the most severe form of diabetes. The onset is usually abrupt and is usually seen in individuals before they are 30 years old. The pancreas produces little or no insulin, and insulin delivery is needed. Is lethal unless promptly diagnosed and treated.



NIDDM is far more common than IDDM. It is often discovered by accident. Is typically gradual onset and occurs mainly in middle-aged and older adults. In this type of diabetes, the pancreas produces insufficient amounts of insulin but cells do not respond. This type of diabetes is caused by diet and can be controlled by diet and exercise.



Medications and insulin are still used for type 2 diabetes because they make money for drug companies, but they don't need to be bought. In fact, make the cells more resistant to the insulin that your body produces.



The glucose tolerance test (IGT) describes an intermediate state-"at risk" group between diabetes mellitus and normal. It can be defined only with the glucose tolerance test.



Signs and symptoms



Some precise details of diabetes include weight loss, frequent urination, general weakness, delayed wound healing and increased thirst and appetite.



Prevention and control



Life expectancy of a well-controlled diabetic is the same as in a non-diabetic. Regular check-ups of urine sugar and blood sugar needs to be done. The diabetic patient should try to avoid emotional and social strain in life, that are associated with diabetes.



Treatment



Diet, exercise and medications are normally recommended for the treatment of diabetes. Treatment should be done under the supervision of a qualified dialectologist and supervised by him or her once in 3 months. The patient should undergo biochemical tests complete eye check up and get tips for foot care. Insulin is the drug commonly used for control of diabetes in patients with IDDM. For NIDDM, various types of oral tablets are available.



Diabetes is the leading cause of disability through its complications, such as blindness, kidney failure, coronary thrombosis, gangrene of the lower extremities and others. Then blood sugar should be monitored to ensure that a majority of complications arising from diabetes.

Signs and Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes - Self Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes

Signs and symptoms of Gestational Diabetes can be seen while screening during the time of pregnancy in women. Gestational diabetes is a disease that occurs with women who have not been diagnosed blood sugar ever before and they show signs of high level of blood glucose in pregnancy. There is no specific cause for the disease that has been found, but experts say's that during pregnancy hormonal changes takes place and insulin level in increased which affects the tolerance level of the body to glucose badly.



Signs and Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes:



· There are no specific symptoms that may be related to the disease, but generally women fell excess of thirst and which can cause the urge of urinating more as compared to the normal routine.



· The signs of gestational diabetes are somehow similar to type 2 diabetes. Women with the disease feel exhausted and fatigue. Vomiting is also reported as a symptom of the disease.



· One may find problem in the vision. If you are not able to see everything clearly and the thing you see seem blurred to you, it may be a symptom of this type of blood sugar.



· Some other symptoms of gestational diabetes are bladder infection and yeast infection.



Self Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes:



There are many home diagnosis kits available in the market now days that can help diagnose the disease on your own at home. These kits are easy to use and cheap too. The process is real easy and all you would need to check the results is your urine or blood sample. The authenticity of these products has been proved as they are all CE marked. Some special type of dye is used in these gestational diabetes diagnosis kits. You need to put 3 drops of urine or blood on the vessel and if the result is positive, the colour will change from yellow to whatever colour is mentioned on the packet.



Similarly, negative result will have a different colour and if the test has not been performed properly, there would be no change in the colour.



Signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes can be easily detected if you keep on doing a regular check up of yourself.

Get an Early Diagnosis of Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that everyone has heard of, and knows that it affects adults and children alike. Over 200 million people have this disease worldwide, and Type 2 diabetes usually affects 90-95% of the diabetic population. Diabetes is generally classified in two types: Type 1 is a condition in which insulin is not produced by our body, and Type 2 occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin and its effects. Though there are many factors that play a role in diabetes, the exact cause of the disease has not yet been pinpointed.



If you have been experiencing increased thirst, or urination, and have noticed changes in your vision, and if this disease affects your family you should probably get a check up. Diabetes need not be debilitating, and is very easy to bring under control. An early diagnosis of diabetes is important in order to take advantage of a variety of different available treatment options.



Although the symptoms for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are common, yet they differ from person to person, and so the symptoms experienced by a diabetic relative do not necessarily mean diabetes for you. There are quite a few ways that a doctor can test a person for diabetes. These tests are usually performed on your blood and urine, and several other tests exist to determine glucose levels in your blood.



If you are feeling excessively thirsty, frequently urinating, feeling tired, having blurred vision or getting tired fast, then you need to consult a doctor. Furthermore, if tingling, numbness, unhealed sores or wounds, and rashes accompany these symptoms, a doctor would definitely recommend some additional tests.



Physicians recommend a test known as fasting plasma glucose test and an additional test known as oral glucose tolerance test. The fasting plasma glucose test is fast, easy and cheap and is therefore widely used. If this test shows blood glucose levels between 100 and 125 mg/dl then this indicates a pre-diabetic condition. If a person is diagnosed with blood glucose levels above 126 mg/dl then diabetes can be confirmed.



In the oral glucose tolerance test, where blood is taken after fasting (usually performed after an eight hour fast) and then another test is done two hours after drinking a glucose rich beverage. If the blood glucose level is between 140 and 199 mg/dl then it is a pre-diabetic condition and if the blood sugar level exceeds 200 mg/dl then the physician confirms this as diabetes.



Physicians will also investigate your family history. If you have family members with diabetes, your doctor may advise you to go for fasting tests every year in order to keep a check on the possibility of diabetes.



There is no cure for diabetes; it can only be managed by carefully controlling sugar levels in your blood. Treatment of Type 1 diabetes usually involves insulin injections, and modifying your diet can often control Type 2: both types of diabetes can greatly benefit by controlling your intake of sugars, carbohydrates, and fatty foods. Your doctor can work closely with you to monitor your diet and recommend changes in your lifestyle in order to bring this chronic condition under control.



In conclusion, diabetes is relatively easy to control, and an early diagnosis of diabetes can considerably change the outcome of the disease and how it affects your life.

Type 2 Diabetes - How a Diagnosis Changes Your Life

A few years ago, my sister was also diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. By that time, she had gone through years of steadily declining health -- nothing firm that you could have pointed to, but a continual feeling of being tired and run down. We thought it was because she was a mother of two young children. Eventually she decided to ask her doctor about it anyways, just in case is was something else. They ordered some blood tests and found out she was diabetic. She was only 35 when she was diagnosed.



Her doctor explained that Type 2 diabetes was also called 'adult-onset' diabetes since it was mostly adults that developed the disease (we have since learned that it's increasingly found in children too). It's mostly a lifestyle disease. A family history puts you at higher risk, but the way you live makes a big difference in the likelihood you develop the disease.



We had always known, in a vague way, that being overweight wasn't healthy. My sister has been moderately overweight since she was a teenager. Her doctor had told her repeatedly that it would be best if she lost weight, but he never mentioned the possibility of diabetes and it just didn't occur to us. We had thought that diabetes was something that adults over 50 developed, not younger adults like us.



My sister tried a few diets and lost a few pounds here and there but always regained them, along with a few more pounds on top of that. After her diabetes diagnosis, she was told that being overweight significantly increases the risk of getting the disease because your body becomes more resistant to the effects of insulin. Insulin lowers the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood, and if there's too much then all sorts of symptoms start to appear. You find yourself thirsty all the time, having to go to the bathroom a lot, and you feel hungry, tired, and itchy, among other signs. Worse, untreated diabetes can lead to much more serious complications like heart and kidney problems.



Diabetes changes your life in very big ways. My sister now cooks and eats a healthy diet but even after all these years, it's hard for her because her husband and children can enjoy treats and convenience foods that she cannot. She has struggled -- and succeeded -- in losing weight and keeping it off. Her biggest struggle is to maintain an exercise routine. Due to the diabetes, she has poor circulation and problems with her feet, which makes it even harder for her to exercise. But she has to do it: exercise is one of those things that helps to keep her blood sugar under control. She has to monitor her blood sugar every day. The good news is that she used to take insulin but has gotten the disease under control well enough that she is no longer on medication. She manages her diabetes with a strict diet and exercise plan.



The big risk factors for Type 2 diabetes are: family history, being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and eating a poor diet that's high in refined or processed foods and sugar.



If you have these risk factors you should talk to your doctor and come up with a plan to lower your risk. We've noticed that a healthy diet for diabetics is basically the same as a healthy diet for everyone, with lots of fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy. Exercise is really important too. Even a 1/2 hour walk every day helps. Eating well and exercise also helps in weight loss too.



Even if you don't show any symptoms of diabetes right now, you can still be at risk. Type 2 diabetes develops slowly and many people show normal blood sugar levels for years before being diagnosed. It's so much easier to do things now to lower your risk, then to have to try to control the disease after you get it.

Bird Flu: Diagnosis

Central to the problem of dealing with bird flu is diagnosis. A number of upper respiratory infections have similar symptoms—at least at the onset of the illness, including the common cold, seasonal influenza, and bird flu. Seasonal flu and bird flu have almost identical symptoms—including fever, cough, malaise (feeling unwell), nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is, needless to say, a gigantic problem in accurately diagnosing bird flu—which is critical to beginning appropriate treatment as well as initiating infection control procedures and public health measures.



Currently, accurate testing for bird flu and other vial infections that can cause similar symptoms is difficult and requires specialized testing. This testing is time consuming and only available in specialized reference laboratories, which are few and far between. Fortunately, this may change in the near future.



According to Richard Janeczko, Ph.D., executive vice-president and chief scientific officer, Tm Bioscience, located In Toronto, Canada, is feverishly working to complete the final stage of development of an amazing test—not only for bird flu, but for more than 15 other viral infections (including severe acute respiratory syndrome or SARS), many of which can mimic the symptoms of bird flu (personal communication). (Tm Bioscience is a DNA-based diagnostics company developing a suite of genetic tests. Tm Bioscience’s product pipeline includes tests for genetic disorders, drug metabolism, and infectious diseases. Additional information about Tm Bioscience can be found at http://www.tmbioscience.com.)



The test, called the Multiplexed Respiratory Test, discriminates influenza A from influenza B and identifies the H5-subtype of influenza A (bird flu is “H5N1”) from all other H subtypes. In addition, it can identify almost all the other common—and some uncommon—viruses that cause influenza-like illnesses. This is extremely important in managing patients, communities and economic issues. Other tests have lower clinical sensitivities and specificities which can lead to both false positives and false negatives.
By incorrectly identifying an outbreak as due to H5N1, patients could be treated with anti-virals unnecessarily (thus raising the chances of selecting for drug-resistant strains), unneeded vaccination programs in asymptomatic individuals could be initiated, and damage to local and national economies—through such measures as culling of commercial poultry operations—could occur. Conversely a false-negative test result could lead to catastrophic outcomes, including a pandemic.



The assay utilizes swab specimens taken from the nose and takes less than 5 hours to perform. It was developed for use as a diagnostic tool and for infection control in hospitals. The assay has been slated for expedited review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and TM Bioscience is hoping to have an FDA-cleared test available by the end of January 2006. If this assay delivers what it claims, it will have huge applicability on a global basis and save many lives.



Bradford Frank, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A.
The Frank Group
P.O. Box 138
Lakewood, NY 14750
[http://www.AvoidBirdFlu.com]/>

Diagnosis of Diabetes

Every serious disease has a corresponding diagnosis and if it is completely followed might cure a certain disease. However there are diseases that are not curable like diabetes and liver cirrhosis. They can't be cured but you can prevent and treat them.



Apart from physical and family history examinations, physicians will also require a series of laboratory tests to ensure and find out the type of diabetes that patient has. This laboratory test might include:



• Urine test - To find out glucose and ketones, a urine sample will be required by the physician for a test. This is one of the most required laboratory tests for people who are suspected to have diabetes. When the body uses fat instead of glucose for energy, acids will be collected in the blood and urine.



• Blood test - In order to measure the amount of glucose in the bloodstream, blood test is being required. Most physicians use one touch diabetes meter to test the patient's blood sugar level.



• Glucose-tolerance test - it is a test which checks the body's ability and capability to process glucose. During Glucose-tolerance test, sugar levels in the blood and urine are monitored for almost three hours after drinking a large amount of sugar solution.



• Fasting blood sugar - if you are suspected to have diabetes, you really have to go through this kind of test which involves fasting overnight and then blood is being drawn the next morning.



• Glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) test - this type of laboratory test, reveals the total amount of the entire blood sugar levels for the previous two months.

Diabetes Diagnosis What To Do Next

Diabetes is a very serious disease, but it is controllable. Approximately 16 million people in the United States have this disease, a serious, life-long disorder that is, as yet, incurable. This disease can, and will, lead to a wide range of other serious health complications.



It is a silent killer that kills one person every 10 seconds. It is a global problem with devastating human, social and economic impact. It is a growing epidemic threatening to overwhelm global healthcare services, wipe out some indigenous populations and undermine economies worldwide, especially in developing countries.



This disease can occur any time, even in the first year of life. If you are at risk or have pre-diabetes, you can take some small steps to prevent the disease. About one-third of these people do not know they have this disease and are not under medical care. Anyone with this disease is at increased risk for heart disease, blindness, kidney failure and lower extremity amputations



The symptoms of this disease are frequent thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, rapid loss of weight, and obvious weakness and fatigue. Obesity, especially in the abdomen and at the waistline, greatly increases the risk of this illness. A very good way you can help to prevent type 2 is by maintaining your ideal body weight, especially if you have a family history of this disease.



Diet and exercise have been shown to delay the onset of this disease in people who are in the early stages of insulin resistance, identified by borderline blood sugar levels. After the first few years of treatment, the majority of people with type 2 require more than one medicine to keep their blood sugar under control.



Around one out of three people with type 2 diabetes requires insulin. Four to six out of every 100 people with type 2 diabetes become dependent on dialysis treatments because of kidney failure. Treatment will always include taking insulin and may include taking other drugs to prevent kidney damage or to treat disease related conditions such as high blood pressure.



Treatment may include taking oral medicines to decrease insulin resistance or increase insulin secretion and taking other drugs to treat any condition that is related to this disease and may also include taking insulin. The goal for the treatment of this condition is to keep blood glucose and blood pressure levels as close to normal as possible. Therefore it is imperative to self-monitor blood glucose levels which will provide the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding your daily diabetes care.

Cats Urinary Tract Infection - Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

A cat urinary tract infection can be an extremely painful situation for any feline. Most importantly, when left untreated, it could be fatal. So, as a cat owner, it is your duty to be aware of the symptoms of this problem and the possible treatment options you have.



The most important thing you need to do as a cat owner is observe your pet closely. You should know your pet's habits and you should be able to tell if there is a change in its habits. Whenever your cat behaves slightly differently, you should immediately find out what it is and, if it is a problem, should treat it appropriately. Given below are some of the most common symptoms of urinary tract infection for cats.



1. Painful urination - Your cat will literally scream and cry in pain while urinating.



2. Frequent urination - Your cat will urinate frequently but pass only a few drops of urine.



3. Blood in your cat's urine - Sometimes, there could be very little blood in your cat's urine that it is almost not visible to naked eye. Sometimes, there could be lots of blood in your cat's urine.



4. Loss of appetite - Your cat will refuse to eat or drink anything.



5. Lethargy - The pain and the suffering will make your cat extremely inactive. Also, since cats do not eat anything during this problem, it makes them extremely weak as well.



6. Fever and vomiting - These symptoms are common for severe urinary infections and kidney stones.



If you notice any of these symptoms, it is most likely a case of cats urinary tract infection. So, you should take your cat to a vet immediately and find out what the problem is. The most common treatment for this problem is antibiotics. Antibiotics can have side effects in some cats such as diarrhea, swelling, rash, trouble breathing, inflammation, and more. For added support consider a natural remedy made to specifically help cats with a urinary tract infection.



Natural homeopathic remedies can not only help the symptoms of urinary tract infection for cats, but can also help to prevent recurring infections. They can provide help within a few days. Since they are completely natural, you do not have to worry about side effects or allergic reactions. Some of the most important herbs you should look for in these medications include Uva Ursi, Cantharis, Causticum, Equisetum, and Ferrum Phos.



The best thing about these homeopathic remedies is that they can not only be given to support cats with a urinary tract infection, but can also be given regularly as a health supplement. They have the ability to boost your cat's immune system and strengthen its urinary system. So, when given regularly, they can keep your cat healthy and happy for a long time.

Cats Urinary Tract Infection - Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

A cat urinary tract infection can be an extremely painful situation for any feline. Most importantly, when left untreated, it could be fatal. So, as a cat owner, it is your duty to be aware of the symptoms of this problem and the possible treatment options you have.



The most important thing you need to do as a cat owner is observe your pet closely. You should know your pet's habits and you should be able to tell if there is a change in its habits. Whenever your cat behaves slightly differently, you should immediately find out what it is and, if it is a problem, should treat it appropriately. Given below are some of the most common symptoms of urinary tract infection for cats.



1. Painful urination - Your cat will literally scream and cry in pain while urinating.



2. Frequent urination - Your cat will urinate frequently but pass only a few drops of urine.



3. Blood in your cat's urine - Sometimes, there could be very little blood in your cat's urine that it is almost not visible to naked eye. Sometimes, there could be lots of blood in your cat's urine.



4. Loss of appetite - Your cat will refuse to eat or drink anything.



5. Lethargy - The pain and the suffering will make your cat extremely inactive. Also, since cats do not eat anything during this problem, it makes them extremely weak as well.



6. Fever and vomiting - These symptoms are common for severe urinary infections and kidney stones.



If you notice any of these symptoms, it is most likely a case of cats urinary tract infection. So, you should take your cat to a vet immediately and find out what the problem is. The most common treatment for this problem is antibiotics. Antibiotics can have side effects in some cats such as diarrhea, swelling, rash, trouble breathing, inflammation, and more. For added support consider a natural remedy made to specifically help cats with a urinary tract infection.



Natural homeopathic remedies can not only help the symptoms of urinary tract infection for cats, but can also help to prevent recurring infections. They can provide help within a few days. Since they are completely natural, you do not have to worry about side effects or allergic reactions. Some of the most important herbs you should look for in these medications include Uva Ursi, Cantharis, Causticum, Equisetum, and Ferrum Phos.



The best thing about these homeopathic remedies is that they can not only be given to support cats with a urinary tract infection, but can also be given regularly as a health supplement. They have the ability to boost your cat's immune system and strengthen its urinary system. So, when given regularly, they can keep your cat healthy and happy for a long time.