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Introduction

Diabetes is a common health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. The good news is that with the right knowledge and lifestyle changes, diabetes can be managed effectively. In this article, we’ll break down what diabetes is, its symptoms, causes, and practical ways to keep it under control.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is a vital source of energy for your cells, but when your body can’t regulate it properly, it leads to high blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes – An autoimmune condition where the body doesn’t produce insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar). It usually develops in childhood or adolescence.

2. Type 2 Diabetes – The more common type, where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to it. It’s often linked to lifestyle factors.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes

Recognising the symptoms early can help in timely diagnosis and management. Some common signs include:

Frequent urination

Excessive thirst and hunger

Unexplained weight loss

Fatigue and irritability

Blurred vision

Slow-healing wounds

Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor for proper testing.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of Type 1 diabetes is still unclear, Type 2 diabetes is often linked to:

Unhealthy diet (high in sugar and processed foods)

Sedentary lifestyle (lack of physical activity)

Obesity (excess body weight)

Family history (genetic predisposition)

Age (risk increases after 45)

How Diabetes Affects Your Health?

If left unmanaged, high blood sugar can lead to serious complications, including:

Heart disease (increased risk of heart attacks and strokes)

Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy)

Nerve damage (neuropathy, causing pain or numbness)

Vision problems (diabetic retinopathy, leading to blindness)

Foot complications (poor circulation, infections, ulcers)

The good news? With proper care, these risks can be significantly reduced.

Managing Diabetes: Tips for a Healthier Life

Here are some tips for managing diabetes for a healthier life:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

Choose whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Limit sugary foods, refined carbs, and processed snacks.

Include fibre-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and legumes.

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2. Stay Active

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (walking, cycling, swimming) daily.

Strength training helps improve insulin sensitivity.

3. Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly

Keep track of your glucose levels as advised by your doctor.

Use a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) if needed.

4. Take Medications as Prescribed

If your doctor has prescribed insulin or oral medications, follow the schedule strictly.

5. Manage Stress and Sleep Well

High stress can raise blood sugar—practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga.

Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep to help regulate hormones.

6. Regular Check-ups

Visit your doctor for routine tests (HbA1c, cholesterol, kidney function).

Get annual eye and foot exams to prevent complications.

When to Seek Help?

If you experience:

Extremely high or low blood sugar levels

Severe fatigue, dizziness, or confusion

Persistent infections or slow-healing wounds

…it’s time to consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Take Control of Your Health with Apollo 24|7

Managing diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support and guidance, you can lead a healthy, fulfilling life. If you need expert advice or want to schedule a diabetes screening, Apollo 24|7 offers convenient online consultations and lab tests.

Book a consultation or lab test today through the Apollo 24|7 app or website.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a manageable condition—knowledge and proactive care are your best tools. By making small, consistent changes in diet, exercise, and lifestyle, you can keep your blood sugar in check and reduce complications. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and support is always available.

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Doctor Speciality: Physician

Text: Consult a Top Physician For More Health Benefits