Understanding Diabetes:
A Comprehensive Guide

Type 1 Diabetes

Risk factors:

There is no singular known cause for type 1 diabetes, but several factors can increase the likelihood of developing it including:

• Genetics (Family History):

  • Having a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, with Type 1 diabetes increases the risk.
  • Specific genes, particularly in the HLA region of the immune system, are linked to a higher likelihood of developing Type 1 diabetes.

• Age:

  • Type 1 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults.
  • The peak age of diagnosis is typically between 4 and 7 years old, with another smaller peak during adolescence.

• Viral Infections:

  • Certain viral infections, like Coxsackievirus or Epstein-Barr virus, may trigger the immune system to attack the pancreas in genetically predisposed individuals.

• Other Autoimmune Conditions:

  • If you have other autoimmune diseases, such as celiac disease or thyroid disorders, you may be at higher risk for Type 1 diabetes because your immune system is already prone to attacking your own body.

• Environmental Factors:

  • While not fully understood, environmental factors such as exposure to certain viruses or possibly even early life exposures might play a role in triggering Type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is complex and unpredictable, as many people with Type 1 diabetes have no clear risk factors.

Type 2 Diabetes

Risk factors

Type 2 diabetes has several modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Early detection and proactive management can help control the progression of diabetes and reduce complications.

Some of these factors include:

~Non modifiable risk factors include:

• Older Age:
  As we get older, especially after the age of 45, our risk for developing Type 2 diabetes naturally increases. Over time, our bodies may not use insulin as efficiently, experience changes in metabolism and weight gain, and reduced physical activity, all of these can make managing blood glucose (sugar) more challenging. While aging is beyond our control, staying active, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining regular health check-ups can help us manage these changes and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

• Ethnicity:
  Some ethnic groups are at a higher risk for Type 2 diabetes, including African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and Asian Americans. This increased risk is influenced by both genetics and lifestyle habits that can lead to insulin resistance. While ethnicity is something we can't change, knowing that you're at a higher risk can help you take proactive steps like early screenings and adopting healthier habits to stay ahead of potential health issues.

• Family History:
  If you have an immediate family member like a parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes, your risk of developing it is higher. Family history plays a significant role because certain genes can influence how your body uses insulin and processes glucose. While you can't change your genetic background, being aware of a family history of diabetes allows you to be more vigilant about your health. Regular check-ups, monitoring your blood glucose, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help catch any early signs and reduce your risk.

~Modifiable Risk Factors include:

• Being Overweight:

  • Being overweight is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, but does not guarantee its development

• Physical Inactivity:

  • Regular exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively and keeps blood glucose under control.  
  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

• Diet Choices:

  • Eating a balanced diet with whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is key to managing blood glucose.
  • Limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can help prevent weight gain and keep blood sugar in check.

• Quitting Smoking:

  • Smoking increases insulin resistance and raises inflammation in the body, both of which increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
  • Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your overall health.

• Managing Blood Pressure & Cholesterol:

  • High blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage blood vessels and affect how your body uses insulin.
  • Keeping both in a healthy range can help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes and improve heart health.
    

Making small changes in these areas—like staying active, eating healthier, quitting smoking, and managing stress—can go a long way in reducing your risk and improve your overall health.

If you would like a medical explanation as to what happens in the body, click here

Symptoms of Diabetes

Have you noticed any changes in how you’re feeling lately? The early symptoms of diabetes can be subtle but recognizing them early is important for protecting your health. Here are some signs to watch for:

Feeling Thirsty All the Time (Polydipsia)
No matter how much water you drink, you might still feel parched. This constant thirst could mean your body is struggling to manage blood sugar levels.

Frequent Bathroom Trips (Polyuria)
Are you running to the bathroom more often, especially at night? This could be your body’s way of flushing out excess sugar in your blood.

Unexplained Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired, even after a full night’s sleep, might mean your body isn’t efficiently turning sugar into energy.

Blurry Vision
Is it harder to focus or see clearly? High blood sugar can cause the lens of your eye to swell, leading to temporary vision changes.

Slow-Healing Wounds
Have you noticed cuts or bruises taking longer to heal? High blood sugar can slow your body’s ability to repair itself.

Increased Hunger
Still hungry after meals? If your body isn’t using sugar properly for energy, you may feel the urge to eat more, even when you’ve had enough.

Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying—especially if your eating habits haven’t changed—can happen when your body starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy.

Tingling or Numbness
Do you feel tingling or numbness in your hands or feet? This could signal nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels.

Frequent Infections
Are you getting more infections, like skin or urinary tract infections, that take longer to resolve? High blood sugar weakens your immune system, making it harder to fight off bacteria and heal properly.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to schedule a checkup with your doctor. Recognizing these signs early allows for timely diagnosis and management, helping you take control of your health. Don’t ignore what your body is telling you—when in doubt, it’s always better to get checked out!

How diabetes can affect your life

Diabetes can have significant impacts on the daily life of older adults, and its consequences can be even more challenging if not managed properly. Here’s how it might affect your loved one or yourself:

1. Heart Disease and Stroke
Living with diabetes increases the chances of developing heart disease or having a stroke, as it can damage blood vessels. This makes conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol more common, leading to greater risk for heart-related issues.

2. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
If blood sugar is not well controlled, it can lead to nerve damage, especially in the feet and legs. This may cause painful tingling, numbness, or a lack of feeling, making it harder to walk, increasing the chance of falls, and sometimes making simple movements uncomfortable or unsafe.

3. Vision Problems
Diabetes can harm the small blood vessels in the eyes, causing blurry vision or, over time, even blindness. It’s important to keep up with regular eye checkups because vision problems can impact daily activities like reading, driving, or simply enjoying life.

4. Kidney Damage
For some people with diabetes, the kidneys may no longer work as they should, leading to kidney disease. This can be especially concerning as it may progress to the point where dialysis is needed, affecting quality of life.

5. Slow Healing of Wounds
Diabetes can make healing from cuts, bruises, and injuries more difficult. Wounds may take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infection and complications, especially for older adults whose immune systems may already be weaker.

6. Higher Risk of Infections
Because diabetes can weaken the immune system, older adults are more susceptible to infections, such as urinary tract or skin infections. These infections can be harder to treat and may take longer to heal, adding more stress to the situation.

7. Cognitive Decline
There’s evidence to suggest that diabetes may increase the risk of cognitive issues or even dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease. Managing blood sugar levels is important not only for physical health but also for mental clarity and memory.

8. Balance and Mobility Challenges
Nerve damage and poor circulation can lead to difficulties with balance and walking. This may make older adults more prone to falls, which can be dangerous and sometimes result in serious injuries.

9. Mental Health Struggles
Dealing with the daily challenges of managing diabetes can lead to feelings of stress, sadness, or even depression. For seniors, this emotional toll can make it harder to stay on top of their health and can lead to feelings of isolation.

10. Risk of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Older adults are especially at risk of having low blood sugar, especially if they are taking insulin. Episodes of hypoglycemia can cause dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, fainting, making it crucial to closely monitor blood sugar levels.

11. More Frequent Hospital Visits
If diabetes is poorly managed, it can lead to more hospital stays due to complications like severe infections, kidney failure, or heart problems. This can disrupt daily life and be both physically and emotionally draining.

12. Amputation Risk
Serious complications, such as foot ulcers, can result in amputation if not treated properly. Poor circulation and nerve damage in the feet can make even small injuries dangerous, especially if the person has difficulty noticing or treating them promptly.

Living with diabetes as an older adult requires constant care and attention. It’s essential to stay on top of blood sugar management, follow a healthy lifestyle, and make regular checkups a priority. By doing so, many of these complications can be avoided or managed, helping to maintain a better quality of life.

Strategies for Day-to-Day Care of Diabetes

Managing diabetes day-to-day requires consistency and mindfulness, but small, intentional steps can make a big difference in keeping blood sugar levels stable. Here’s how you can take charge of your health every day:

1. Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly
~Use a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track your blood sugar levels.
~Test at key times, such as before meals, after eating, or before and after exercise, to learn how your body reacts.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet
~Choose nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, whole grains, lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu), and healthy fats (avocado, nuts).
~Avoid foods that cause blood sugar spikes, like sugary beverages, processed snacks, and refined carbohydrates.
~Incorporate fiber-rich options like oats, beans, and vegetables, which help slow sugar absorption.
3. Stay Active
~Engage in regular physical activity to enhance insulin sensitivity and regulate blood glucose.
~Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (e.g., walking, swimming, or biking) most days.
~Add strength training twice a week to build muscle and improve metabolism.
4. Take Medications as Directed
~Stick to your prescribed medication schedule, whether it’s insulin or oral diabetes drugs.
~Set reminders or alarms to ensure you don’t miss doses.
5. Stay Hydrated
~Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support kidney function and help flush out excess sugar.
~Avoid sugary or calorie-laden beverages that can derail your blood sugar goals.
6. Plan Meals and Snacks
~Space your meals evenly throughout the day to avoid extreme blood glucose highs and lows.
~Prepare healthy snacks, like nuts or veggies with hummus, to keep energy levels steady.
7. Manage Stress Effectively
~Stress hormones can increase blood sugar levels, so practice stress-reducing activities (i.e. yoga, meditation, or a relaxing walk.)
~Find hobbies or activities that help you unwind and maintain emotional well-being.
8. Prioritize Sleep
~Get 7–9 hours of sleep each night to promote overall health and stable blood sugar.
~Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to improve the quality of your rest.
9. Keep Up with Health Appointments
~Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your A1C levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and kidney function.
~Work with your healthcare provider to adjust medications and fine-tune your diabetes management plan.
10. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
~Smoking increases the risk of complications like nerve damage and poor circulation. Quitting benefits your overall health and blood glucose control.
~If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation and always pair it with food to minimize blood glucose fluctuations.
~Make It a Lifestyle

Consistency is the key to successful diabetes management. Every small effort—from choosing healthy snacks to staying active—adds up over time to improve your health and quality of life. By building healthy habits into your daily routine, you’ll be well-equipped to keep diabetes in check.