• Type 1 diabetes

  • 1. Autoimmune Factors: The immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
  • 2. Genetic Predisposition: Certain genes are associated with an increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes.
  • 3. Environmental Triggers: Viral infections, such as enteroviruses, may trigger the autoimmune response in individuals with a genetic predisposition.

• Type 2 diabetes

  • 1. Insulin Resistance: The body's cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.
  • 2. Pancreatic Dysfunction: The pancreas may not produce enough insulin to overcome insulin resistance.
  • 3. Genetic Factors: There is a genetic component to type 2 diabetes, and having a family history increases the risk.
  • 4. Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy eating habits contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

• Gestational diabetes

  • 1. Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can interfere with insulin action, leading to insulin resistance.
  • 2. Genetic and Lifestyle Factors: Similar to type 2 diabetes, genetic susceptibility and pre-pregnancy overweight or obesity increase the risk of gestational diabetes.

Common symptoms of diabetes

The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes and the individual. Here are some common symptoms associated with diabetes:

• Frequent Urination (Polyuria): Excessive urination occurs as the body tries to eliminate excess sugar through urine.
• Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia): Increased urination can lead to dehydration, causing persistent thirst.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite increased appetite and food consumption, weight loss may occur due to the body's inability to properly utilize glucose for energy.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy is a common symptom of diabetes, as cells may not be receiving sufficient glucose for energy production.
• Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can affect the lens of the eye, leading to blurry or distorted vision.
• Slow Healing of Wounds: Diabetes can impair the body's ability to heal wounds, making cuts, sores, or infections heal more slowly.
• Recurrent Infections: High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making individuals with diabetes more prone to infections, such as urinary tract infections, skin infections, and yeast infections.
• Tingling or Numbness: Prolonged high blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage, resulting in tingling or numbness in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy).
• Increased Hunger (Polyphagia): Some people with diabetes may experience increased appetite, as the body's cells are not receiving sufficient glucose for energy.

It's important to note that the symptoms of type 1 diabetes usually develop quickly and may be more severe, while type 2 diabetes symptoms can develop gradually and may be milder. Additionally, some individuals with type 2 diabetes may not experience any symptoms initially, and the condition may be diagnosed during routine medical check-ups or blood tests. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about diabetes, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.