Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by high blood glucose levels, which can lead to various complications if not properly controlled. This condition occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it efficiently, causing high blood sugar levels.
There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes: Develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. It usually has a genetic component and occurs primarily in children and young people.
Type 2 diabetes: This is the most common form of the disease and is often related to being overweight, a sedentary lifestyle, and insulin resistance. It occurs most frequently in adults, although it can also develop in young people due to poor eating habits.
Normal and abnormal blood glucose levels.
Measuring fasting blood glucose is essential to diagnose diabetes, as levels can naturally rise after eating.
The reference values for blood glucose are as follows:
Normal: Between 80 and 115 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter).
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar): Fasting blood sugars above 115 mg/dL may indicate prediabetes or diabetes.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Blood sugars below 70 mg/dL can cause symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and confusion, requiring immediate attention.
If a person has fasting blood sugar levels of 150 mg/dL or higher, it is important to see a primary care physician or endocrinologist for a detailed evaluation and accurate diagnosis. This high blood sugar can be a sign of diabetes and should be treated to prevent complications in vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and eyes.
The importance of early diagnosis:
Detecting diabetes early is essential to avoid serious complications, such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathies, and kidney problems. Therefore, regular medical checkups are recommended, especially if there are risk factors such as family history, overweight, hypertension, or high cholesterol levels.
Leading a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medical follow-up, is key to preventing and controlling diabetes, improving quality of life, and reducing the risk of complications.
