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Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects blood sugar regulation.

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Dr. G. Varbanov

Dr. G. Varbanov

Allmennlege | UIN: 0400005105

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Dr. Georgi Varbanov er en allmennlege som er dedikert til evidensbasert behandling og sykdomsforebygging.
Diabetes

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause long-term health complications.

Types of Diabetes:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, caused by insulin resistance and often linked to lifestyle factors.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Temporary diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.
  • Prediabetes: Higher-than-normal blood sugar levels that indicate a risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Early diagnosis and management can help prevent severe complications such as nerve damage, heart disease, kidney failure, and vision problems.

Who Needs Diabetes Treatment?

Treatment is essential for individuals experiencing:

  • High blood sugar or hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) levels detected in routine blood tests.
  • Frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight loss.
  • Fatigue, blurred vision, or slow-healing wounds.
  • Family history of diabetes or obesity-related risk factors.
  • Gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

How to Manage Diabetes Effectively

Controlling blood sugar requires medications, dietary changes, physical activity, and regular monitoring:

Medications for Blood Sugar Control:
  • Metformin (Glucophage, Siofor): First-line treatment to improve insulin sensitivity.
  • Sulfonylureas (Gliclazide, Glimepiride, Diamicron): Stimulate insulin production in the pancreas.
  • DPP-4 Inhibitors (Januvia, Galvus, Onglyza, Trajenta): Help regulate blood sugar levels by prolonging insulin release.
  • SGLT2 Inhibitors (Invokana, Jardiance, Forxiga): Promote glucose excretion through urine.
  • GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (Ozempic, Victoza): Slow digestion, reduce appetite, and help regulate blood sugar.
  • Combination Therapies (Janumet, Eucreas): Combine multiple mechanisms to improve blood sugar control.
Blood Sugar Monitoring & Testing:
  • Home blood sugar meters for daily tracking.
  • Long-Term Blood Sugar Test (cerascreen®) to assess average blood sugar over three months.
  • Diabetes Self-Test Kits (AccuCheck, Wellion, Bayer, Multicheck Plus) for quick at-home glucose checks.
  • Continuous blood glucose monitors (e.g., Dexcom, FreeStyle Libre) offer real-time blood glucose measurement and detailed trend analysis.
Diet & Lifestyle Adjustments:
  • Balanced meals with low glycemic index (GI) foods, lean proteins, and fiber-rich vegetables.
  • Reducing sugar and processed carbohydrates to prevent blood sugar spikes.
  • Regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity and weight management.
  • Hydration & stress management to maintain stable glucose levels.

A well-managed diabetes plan leads to:

  • Better blood sugar control and reduced risk of complications.
  • Improved energy levels and overall well-being.
  • Lower risk of heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve issues.
  • Stable weight and reduced insulin resistance.
  • Enhanced quality of life with fewer blood sugar fluctuations.

Important considerations to keep in mind include the following:

  • Uncontrolled diabetes increases the risk of long-term complications.
  • Skipping medications or irregular testing can lead to blood sugar spikes.
  • A combination of diet, exercise, and medication is essential for effective control.
  • If symptoms worsen or blood sugar remains unstable, consult a healthcare provider.

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Get answers to common questions about Diabetes

Metformin is the first-line treatment, but other medications like SGLT2 inhibitors (Jardiance) and GLP-1 receptor agonists (Ozempic, Victoza) provide additional benefits.
Monitoring depends on your treatment plan, but most people with diabetes check daily or multiple times per week.
Type 2 diabetes can often be managed or put into remission through diet, exercise, and weight loss, but type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy.
Whole grains, leafy greens, lean proteins, nuts, and fiber-rich vegetables help stabilize blood sugar levels.
If you experience uncontrolled blood sugar levels, frequent low or high readings, or diabetes-related complications, consult your doctor immediately.

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