The disease under discussion is incurable diabetes, which affects blood sugar and other body processes. The cases of diabetes, especially in Pakistan, are increasing due to people shifting to cities, eating junk foods, and ignorance related to this disease. This blog focuses solely on the types, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of diabetes.
Types of Diabetes
H3: Type 1 Diabetes
It is a type of disorder that is called so because when the insulin is produced by pancreatic cells, the body destroys it. It happens at a young age or in childhood. People suffering from this disease mostly need to get insulin and regular blood tests.
Type 2 Diabetes
This kind of diabetes mostly prevails due to the body’s resistance towards insulin, or an insufficient quantity of insulin is produced in this case. It happens due to a change in lifestyle, i.e, inactivity, junk food usage, and obesity. The patient can be saved from Severe outcomes if identified and treated early.
Gestational Diabetes
This disease mostly occurs in the gestational stage of a person. When a pregnant woman suffers from this disease, it can affect her child as well. However, this issue can be resolved itself during childbirth. The danger of type of diabetes increases specifically later in life.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Recognizing symptoms early can save lives. Common symptoms include:
- Excessive thirst and frequent urination
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds or infections
In type 2 diabetes, symptoms may develop slowly and go unnoticed for years.
Diabetes Risk Factors
People are more at risk if they:
- Are over 40 years old
- Have a family history of diabetes
- Are overweight or obese
- Have high blood pressure or cholesterol
- Live a sedentary lifestyle
- Belong to a South Asian ethnicity, including Pakistani
Gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and smoking also increase risk.
Diagnosis Methods
Diagnosis is done through several blood tests:
- Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG): Checks sugar after an overnight fast.
- Hemoglobin A1c Test: Shows average blood sugar over 2–3 months.
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar response after consuming glucose.
Early testing is important if you’re at high risk or show symptoms.
Treatment & Management
Lifestyle Changes
Effective diabetes management starts with:
- A balanced diet low in refined carbs and sugar
- Regular physical activity (30–60 minutes a day)
- Stress management and good sleep
- Quitting smoking
Even small changes can significantly improve health.
Medications
If lifestyle adjustments are insufficient, your doctor may prescribe:
- Metformin: First-line medication for type 2
- SGLT2 inhibitors & GLP-1 agonists: Help control blood sugar and weight
- Insulin therapy: Required for type 1 and advanced type 2 cases
Follow your doctor’s plan and attend regular check-ups.
Diabetes Complications
Unmanaged diabetes can damage the body over time:
- Heart disease and stroke
- Kidney failure
- Nerve damage and foot ulcers
- Eye damage leading to blindness
- Higher risk of infections and amputation
Complications are preventable with early diagnosis and proper management.
Prevention
Preventing type 2 diabetes is possible through:
- Weight loss and healthy BMI
- Physical activity—at least 150 minutes/week
- Avoiding sugary drinks and processed foods
- Regular medical check-ups
- Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol
Public education and early screening can reduce diabetes rates in Pakistan.
Conclusion
In Pakistan, concerns regarding diabetes are increasing. This disease can be controlled and prevented with much awareness, a better lifestyle, and easy access to medical facilities.
