Diabetes, often referred to by doctors as diabetes mellitus, describes a group of metabolic diseases in which the person has high blood glucose, either because insulin production is inadequate, or because the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin, or both. Patients with high blood sugar will typically experience frequent urination, and become increasingly thirsty and hungry. There are three types of diabetes:
1) Type 1 Diabetes
This is when the body does not produce insulin. Some people may refer to this type as insulin-dependent diabetes, juvenile diabetes, or early-onset diabetes. People usually develop type 1 diabetes before their 40th year, often in early adulthood or teenage years.Patients with type 1 diabetes will need to take insulin injections for the rest of their life. They must also ensure proper blood-glucose levels by carrying out regular blood tests and following a special diet.
2) Type 2 Diabetes
This is when the body does not produce enough insulin for proper function, or the cells in the body do not react to insulin (insulin resistance). Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type.
3) Gestational Diabetes
This type affects females during pregnancy. Some women have very high levels of glucose in their blood, and their bodies are unable to produce enough insulin to transport all of the glucose into their cells, resulting in progressively rising levels of glucose.
No matter which type you have, it is essential to have regular diabetes monitoring using a diabetes meter or diabetes monitor. One of the complications of diabetes is the fact that inadequate blood supply can cause foot problems and you need to be aware of diabetic foot care and the relevant issues. Diabetic socks are socks aimed at people with diabetes and these are often designed without seams in order to reduce the chance of blistering. In addition, diabetic socks are designed to control moisture in order to reduce risk of infection and foot ulcers. Foot ulcers affect as many as 10% of people with diabetes.
Speak to your healthcare professional or podiatrist if you're unsure about whether diabetic socks are for you. They are not the prettiest of footwear items but now come in a wide range of styles and they are among the many diabetic products which are designed to make life easier for those who have diabetes. There are special foods and beverages which can be enjoyed by diabetics as well as items and accessories which can make walking and other activities more comfortable. You can even buy suitable cupcakes and ice cream!