DIABETES - The Sweet Urine Problem

Long time never post a Health Article. I like to talk about a problem which affects as much as 9.2% of our Singapore Population according to a 1998 survey. The name of the problem is "Diabetes" = "Sweet Urine". Its 2007 today, I think the number should be higher.

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What is Diabetes?

* Diabetes is a disorder in which there is too much sugar (glucose) in the blood

* A substance called insulin carefully regulates the amount of sugar in the blood in a normal person. Insulin is produced by the pancreas, which is a gland. In diabetes, not enough insulin is produced, or the action of insulin is not effective. Sugar therefore accumulates to a high level in the blood.

What complications can Diabetes bring?

Extremely high blood glucose levels can be life threatening and multiple complications can result from long periods of high blood sugar.

This includes damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves and blood vessels resulting in blindness, kidney failure, erectile dysfunction and a higher risk for limb amputations. Also, people with diabetes are at higher risk for heart attacks and strokes.

The 3 types of Diabetes

a) Type 1 Diabetes [Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus]- this usually occurs in children or young adults.

b) Type 2 [Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus]- this is the more common form of diabetes. It occurs mainly in adults and is frequently associated with obesity and hypertension.

c) Gestational Diabetes- this diabetes occurring during a woman's pregnancy.

Some Symptoms Diabetes?

If following happens in recurring and relatively long period of time

a) Frequent Passing of Urine

b) Excessive Thirst

c) Increased Hunger

d) Rapid Weight Loss

e) Blurred Vision

f) General Fatigue and Weakness

Can Diabetes be cured?

No Cure. However can be controlled and many complications be prevented.

Type 1 diabetes must take insulin by injection everyday. In order to control their blood glucose levels, they learn how to balance the foods they eat and the activities they do with the insulin they take.

Type 2 Diabetes can be controlled by diet, exercise and oral tablets. If these fail to provide adequate control, insulin injections may be needed.