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Adult Type II Diabetes Explained

Diabetes is a health risk that affects millions of adults worldwide. In fact, diabetes is one of the six leading causes of death in North America. While it is a condition that poses serious consequences, diabetes can be effectively controlled through medical treatment and positive lifestyle choices.

In all, there are three types of diabetes that affect adults. Type I, or juvenile diabetes, is a condition present at birth. Type II diabetes develops as we get older. Gestational diabetes, the third type, occurs during pregnancy. Symptoms of all three types of diabetes are similar, but each type is unique in the onset and development.

Adult Type II Diabetes

In most cases, adult type II diabetes is associated with obesity, even though the actual cause of the disease is not clear. With age, adult type II diabetes causes insulin to lose its effectiveness, and creates a buildup of sugar in the blood. This condition is known as "insulin resistance" in the medical profession. Adults facing these symptoms are said to be suffering with type II diabetes.

Many people in our generation suffer with adult type II diabetes. It's an extremely common occurrence that an estimated one in ninety adults live with every day. In the past, adult type II diabetes usually developed in older adults, but a new trend shows that the disease is affected men and women at a younger age.

Insulin Resistance

Insulin is produced in the pancreas, and allows the body to naturally regulate sugars. The failure of this biological regulation is a condition known as insulin resistance. This type of diabetes is also known as "beta cell failure". Some of the most common symptoms are as follows:

* There may be a marked and sudden rise in the levels of glucose in the blood.

* The fat levels in the blood will also rise, making the arteries susceptible to clogging, and resulting in serious heart conditions.

* Blood pressure levels will steadily increase.

* You may experience gout, a condition that causes acute joint pain.

Common Symptoms Of Adult Type II Diabetes

The following symptoms can indicate a presence of adult type II diabetes, but may also be common to the other types of the disease:

* Extreme thirst

* Frequent urination

* Chronic fatigue

* Sudden light or excessive weight loss

* Genital itch, caused by yeast infections common to diabetics

* Skin irritation and recurring infections

Treating Adult Type II Diabetes

After your adult type II diabetes diagnosis, there are steps that you should take to make your life as comfortable and normal as possible:

* Alter your diet. This should be your fist step. Speak with your doctor and work with him or her to determine a dietary plan to keep your glucose levels in check.

* Boost your fiber intake, and eliminate as many fats as possible

* Learn to perform your own regular blood glucose level checks. If required, you may also need to inject yourself with insulin. These are essential tasks and you must be diligent in performing them.

* Stay in touch with your doctor, and keep his or her number close at hand. Be prepared to call immediately for medical help, in the event of an emergency.

Millions of people live with adult type II diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with the disease, take the time to find out more about your condition and your treatment options. Knowledge is a very powerful weapon in your fight against diabetes. Learn all you can, and build a strong defense for the sake of your good health.