Diabetes is defined as having too much sugar (glucose) in the blood. Glucose is the main product from the digestion of carbohydrate in food and is an essential fuel for the body. After digestion the glucose enters the bloodstream, which triggers the production of a hormone called insulin that is produced in the pancreas. Insulin tightly controls the blood sugar level by helping glucose to leave the blood and enter the cells where it is used as fuel. People with diabetes either don't have enough insulin or the insulin can't be used efficiently and, as a result, the glucose stays in the blood. Having a high blood sugar for a long time can lead to complications such as kidney failure, loss of vision, heart attacks and nerve damage.

There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 usually occurs before the age of 20 but can be diagnosed in young adult years and even into the 40's age group. It is the result of an immune attack on the pancreas resulting in insulin deficiency (lack of insulin production). Type 2 has a strong hereditary tendency and occurs later in life, although we are seeing an increased incidence in younger people nowadays with increasing levels of childhood obesity. The early stages are characterized by insulin resistance, which later progresses to insulin insufficiency (diminished insulin production).

There is also Gestational Diabetes, which occurs during the later stages of a pregnancy, usually to a woman with a family history of Type 2 diabetes and/or an increased pre-pregnancy weight. These women must strive for good glycemic control in order to ensure optimal outcome for baby and mother. Only about 1-3 % of these women will retain this diabetic state after delivery, while the others need to be aware that they have a high risk of acquiring Type 2 diabetes later in life. They therefore need to continue to follow the concepts of healthy lifestyle to delay or prevent the transition.

Diabetes Symptoms

  • Frequent urination (especially at night)
  • Increased thirst and a dry mouth
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue, tiredness
  • Blurred vision
  • Cuts that don't heal well
  • Burning or tingling in your hands or feet
  • Frequent infections, particularly fungal (especially bladder, penis or vaginal)
  • Dry, itchy skin or eyes
  • Erectile dysfunction

If you have any of these symptoms please contact the clinic on +44 (0)20 7467 5470.




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